Pyrimidine derivatives

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to pyrimidine derivatives of formula (I)wherein (R1)n, R3, R4a, R4b, R5a, R5b and Ar1 are as described in the description and their use in the treatment of cancer by modulating an immune response comprising a reactivation of the immune system in the tumor. The invention further relates to novel benzofurane and benzothiophene derivatives of formula (III) and their use as pharmaceuticals, to their preparation, to pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, and to their use as pharmaceuticals, to pharmaceutical compositions containing one or more compounds of formula (I), and especially to their use as modulators of the prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a United States Application under 35 U.S.C. 371 claiming benefit of PCT Application No. PCT/EP2018/062858, filed on May 17, 2018, which claims the benefit of PCT Application No. PCT/EP2017/062022, filed on May 18, 2017, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

The present invention relates to pyrimidine derivatives of formula (I) and their use in the treatment of cancer by modulating an immune response comprising a reactivation of the immune system in the tumor. The present invention further relates to novel pyrimidine derivatives of formula (III) and their use as pharmaceuticals. The invention also concerns related aspects including processes for the preparation of the compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing one or more compounds of formula (I)/formula (III), and their use as modulators of the PGE2 receptors EP2 (alias PTGER2, alias PGE2 Receptor EP2 Subtype) and/or EP4 (alias PTGER4, alias EP4R, alias PGE2 Receptor EP4 Subtype). The compounds of formula (I)/formula (III) may especially be used as single agents or in combination with one or more therapeutic agents and/or chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy and/or immunotherapy in the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of cancers; in particular the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of melanoma; lung cancer; bladder cancer; renal carcinomas; gastro-intestinal cancers; endometrial cancer; ovarian cancer; cervical cancer; and neuroblastoma.

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a bioactive lipid that can elicit a wide range of biological effects associated with inflammation and cancer. PGE2 belongs to the prostanoid family of lipids. Cyclooxygenase (COX) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of biological mediators termed prostanoids, consisting of prostaglandin PGD2, PGE2, PGF2a, prostacyclin PGI2, and thromboxane TXA2. Prostanoids function via activation of seven transmembrane G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), in particular EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4 are receptors for PGE2. Activation of both EP2 and EP4 by PGE2 stimulates adenylate cyclase, resulting in elevation of cytoplasmic cAMP levels to initiate multiple downstream events via its prototypical effector Protein kinase A. In addition, PGE2 is also able to signal via PI3K/AKT and Ras-MAPK/ERK signalling

Cancers figure among the leading causes of death worldwide. Tumors are comprised of abnormally proliferating malignant cancer cells but also of a functionally supportive microenvironment. This tumor microenvironment is comprised of a complex array of cells, extracellular matrix components, and signaling molecules and is established by the altered communication between stromal and tumor cells. As tumors expand in size, they elicit the production of diverse factors that can help the tumor to grow such as angiogenic factors (promoting ingrowth of blood vessels) or that can help to evade the attack of the host immune response. PGE2 is such an immuno-modulatory factor produced in tumors.

It is well established that COX2, mainly via PGE2, promotes overall growth of tumors and is upregulated and correlates with clinical outcome in a high percentage of common cancers, especially colorectal, gastric, esophageal, pancreatic, breast and ovarian cancer. High COX-2 and PGE2 expression levels are associated with neoplastic transformation, cell growth, angiogenesis, invasiveness, metastasis and immune evasion.

The finding that COX2 is over-expressed and plays an important role in carcinogenesis in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers including among others esophagus, gastric and colorectal cancers has led to the fact that COX-inhibitors (Coxibs), including Celecoxib, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), including aspirin, are among the most studied cancer chemopreventive agents in development today (for review see for example Wang R et al, Curr Pharm Des. 2013; 19(1):115-25; Garcia Rodriguez L A et al, Recent Results Cancer Res. 2013; 191:67-93, Sahin I H et al, Cancer Lett. 2014 Apr. 10; 345(2):249-57; Drew D A et al, Nat Rev Cancer 2016, 16:173; Brotons C et al, Am J Cardiovasc Drugs. 2015 April; 15(2):113)

In addition to COX2 and PGE2, also EP receptors, especially EP2 and EP4, are aberrantly over-expressed in multiple types of cancers, especially in gastro-intestinal (GI) cancers and pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, the over-expression of PGE2 and/or EP2 and/or EP4 correlates with diseases progression in some cancer types such as oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (Kuo K T et al, Ann Surg Onc 2009; 16(2), 352-60); squamous cell carcinoma of the lung (Alaa M et al, Int J Oncol 2009, 34(3); 805-12); prostate cancer (Miyata Y et al, Urology 2013, 81(1):136-42); Badawi A F and Badr M Z Int J Cancer. 2003, 103(1):84-90); head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (Gallo O et al, Hum Pathol. 2002, 33(7):708-14).

In accordance to studies performed with Coxibs, in mice, knockout of either COX1, COX2, microsomal prostaglandin E synthase 1 (mPTGES1), EP2 or EP4 resulted in reduced tumor incidence and progression in different tumor models. Conversely, overexpression of COX2 or mPTGES1 in transgenic mice resulted in increased tumor incidence and tumor burden (for review see Nakanishi M. and Rosenberg D. W., Seminars in Immunopathology 2013, 35: 123-137; Fischer S M et al Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2011 November; 4(11):1728-35; Fulton A M et al Cancer Res 2006; 66(20); 9794-97).

Several pharmacological studies to inhibit tumor growth and progression using EP receptor antagonists or COX2 inhibitors in different tumor models have been conducted in mice. Among others, EP antagonists and/or COX2 inhibitors reduced tumor growth and metastasis in experimental models of colorectal cancer (e.g Yang L et al Cancer Res 2006, 66(19), 9665-9672; Pozzi A. et al JBC 279(28); 29797-29804), lung carcinomas (Sharma S et al Cancer Res 2005 65(12), 5211-5220), gastro-intestinal cancer (Oshima H et al Gastroenterology 2011, 140(2); 596-607; Fu S L et al world J Gastroenterol 2004, 10(13); 1971-1974), breast cancer (Kundu N et al, Breast Cancer Res Treat 117, 2009; 235-242; Ma X et al, Oncolmmunology 2013; Xin X et al Lab Investigation 2012, 1-14; Markosyan N et al; Breast Cancer Res 2013, 15:R75), prostate cancer (Xu S et al, Cell Biochem Biophys 2014, Terada et al Cancer Res 70(4) 2010; 1606-1615), pancreatic cancer (Al-Wadei H A et al, PLOS One 2012, 7(8):e43376; Funahashi H et al, Cancer Res 2007, 67(15):7068-71). COX2 inhibitors were approved for the treatment of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) which is an inherited pre-disposition syndrome for colorectal cancer, but later retracted due to cardiovascular side effects.

Mechanistically, PGE2 signalling is mainly involved in the crosstalk between tumor and stromal cells, thereby creating a microenvironment which is favourable for the tumor to grow. In particular, PGE2 signalling via EP2 and EP4 can for example (i) suppress the cytotoxicity and cytokine production of natural killer cells, (ii) skew the polarization of tumor-associated macrophages towards tumor-promoting M2 macrophages (see for example Nakanishi Y et al Carcinogenesis 2011, 32:1333-39), (iii) regulate the activation, expansion and effector function of both Tregs (regulatory T cells) and MDSC (myeloid derived suppressor cells), which are potent immunosuppressive cells that accumulate in tumors both in patients and in experimental animal models (see for example Sharma S et al, Cancer Res 2005, 5(12):5211-20; Sinha P et al Cancer Res 2007, 67(9), 4507-4513; Obermajer N et al, Blood 2011, 118(20):5498-5505); (iv) down-regulate IFN-γ, TNF-α IL-12 and IL-2 expression in immune cells such as natural killer cells, T-cells, dendritic cells and macrophages, impairing the ability of these immune cells to induce tumor cell apoptosis and restrain tumorigenesis (see for example Bao Y S et al, Int Immunopharmacol. 2011; 11(10):1599-605; Kim J G and Hahn Y S, Immunol Invest. 2000; 29(3):257-69; Demeuere C E et al, Eur J Immunol. 1997; 27(12):3526-31; Mitsuhashi M et al, J Leukoc Biol. 2004; 76(2):322-32; Pockaj B A et al, Ann Surg Oncol. 2004; 11(3):328-39; (v) suppress activation, IL-2 responsiveness, expansion and cytotoxicity of T-cells thereby contributing to local immunsuppresion (see for example Specht C et al, Int J Cancer 200191:705-712); (vi) inhibit maturation of dendritic cells, their ability to present antigens and to produce IL-12, resulting in abortive activation of cytotoxic T-cells (see for example Ahmadi M et al, Cancer Res 2008, 68(18):7250-9; Stolina M et al, J Immunol 2000, 164:361-70); (vii) regulate tumor angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels for nutrient and oxygen supply) by enhancing endothelial cell motility and survival as well as by increasing the expression of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) (see for example Zhang Y and Daaka Y, Blood 2011; 118(19):5355-64; Jain S et al, Cancer Res. 2008; 68(19):7750-9; Wang and Klein, Molecular Carcinogenesis 2007, 46:912-923; (viii) enhance tumor cell survival (via PI3K/AKT and MAPK signalling). For review see for example Kalinski P, J Immunol 2012, 188(1), 21-28; Obermajer N et al, Oncoimmunology 1(5), 762-4; Greenhough A et al, carcinogenesis 2009, 30(3), 377-86; Wang D and Dubois R N, Gut 2006, 55, 115-122; Harris S G e al Trends Immunol 2002, 22, 144-150).

Coxibs have been shown to render tumor cells more sensitive to radiation and chemotherapy and several clinical trials have been performed or are ongoing combining Coxibs with radio- and/or chemotherapy (for review see e.g Ghosh N et al, Pharmacol Rep. 2010 March-April; 62(2):233-44; Davis T W et al, Am J Clin Oncol. 2003, 26(4):558-61; see also Higgins J P et al, Cancer Biol Ther 2009, 8:1440-49).

Furthermore, there is some evidence of additive effects and/or synergy between Coxibs and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors (see for example Zhang X et al, Clin Cancer Res. 2005, 11(17):6261-9; Yamaguchi N H et al, J Gastrointest Oncol. 2014, 5(1):57-66); and with aromatase inhibitors (see for example Generali D et al, Br J Cancer. 2014; 111(1):46-54; Lustberg M B et all, Clin Breast Cancer. 2011 August; 11(4):221-7; Falandry C et al, Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2009 August; 116(3):501-8); Chow L W et al, J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2008, 111(1-2):13-7).

Moreover, additive/synergistic effects have been seen in different mouse tumor models when Aspirin (a COX1/2 inhibitor) was combined with and anti-VEGF antibody (Motz G T et al; Nat Med 2014 20(6):607) and this combination is currently under investigation in clinical trials (NCT02659384).

Recently, it has been shown that, if combined, different immunotherapeutic approaches can have enhanced anti-tumor efficacy. Due to the immune-modulatory properties of PGE2, Coxibs have thus also been used in combination with different immunotherapeutic approaches. In particular, additive or even synergistic effects could be observed when Coxibs were combined with dendritic cell vaccination in a rat glioma model and in a mouse mesothelioma or melanoma model (Zhang H et al, Oncol Res. 2013; 20(10):447-55; Veltman J D et al, BMC Cancer. 2010; 10:464; Toomey D et all, Vaccine. 2008 Jun. 25; 26(27-28):3540-9); with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) in mouse brain tumors (Eberstål S et al, Int J Cancer. 2014 Jun. 1; 134(11):2748-53); with interferon gamma (IFN-γ) in brain tumors (Eberstål S et al, Cancer Immunol Immunother. 2012, 61(8):1191-9); with dendritic cell vaccination or with GM-CSF in a mouse breast cancer model (Hahn T et al, Int J Cancer. 2006, 118(9):2220-31); and with adenoviral interferon beta (IFN−) therapy in a mouse mesothelioma model (DeLong P et al, Cancer Res. 2003 Nov. 15; 63(22):7845-52). Along these lines, additive or even synergistic effects of Coxibs and/or EP2 and/or EP4 antagonists can also be envisaged with agents acting on cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) such as anti-CTLA-4 antibodies; anti-TIM-3 antibodies, anti-Lag-3 antibodies; anti-TIGIT antibodies; or, in particular, with agents acting on programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1), such as anti-PD1 or anti-PDL1 (programmed cell death ligand 1) antibodies (Yongkui Li et al Oncoimmunology 2016, 5(2):e1074374; Zelenay S et al, Cell 2015, 162; 1-14; WO2013/090552, which indicates a synergistic effect of dual EP2 and EP4 blockade in combination with agents acting on PD1).

Adenosine is another endogenous factor with anti-inflammatory properties that is generated through the activity of ectonucleotidases, CD39 and CD73, expressed on various cell types, including regulatory T cells (Treg) (Mandapathil M et al, J Biol Chem. 2010; 285(10):7176-86). Immune cells also respond to Adenosine, because they bear receptors for ADO, which are mainly of the A2a/A2b type (Hoskin D W, et al, Int J Oncol 2008, 32:527-535). Signaling via Adenosine receptors and EP2/EP4 receptors converges on the cytoplasmic adenylyl cyclase, leading to up-regulation of cAMP. It was shown that Adenosine and PGE2 cooperate in the suppression of immune responses mediated by regulatory T cells (Mandapathil M et al, J Biol Chem. 2010; 285(36):27571-80; Caiazzo E et al, Biochem Pharmacol. 2016; 112:72-81).

Thus, the present EP2 and/or EP4 antagonists may be useful, alone, or in combination with one or more therapeutic agents and/or chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy and/or immunotherapy; in particular in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, EGFR inhibitors, aromatase inhibitors, anti-angiogenic drugs, adenosine inhibitors, immunotherapy such as especially PD1 and/or PDL1 blockade, or other targeted therapies; for the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of cancers, notably for the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of skin cancer including melanoma including metastatic melanoma; lung cancer including non-small cell lung cancer; bladder cancer including urinary bladder cancer, urothelial cell carcinoma; renal carcinomas including renal cell carcinoma, metastatic renal cell carcinoma, metastatic renal clear cell carcinoma; gastro-intestinal cancers including colorectal cancer, metastatic colorectal cancer, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), oesophageal cancer, gastric cancer, gallbladder cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and pancreatic cancer such as pancreatic adenocarcinoma or pancreatic ductal carcinoma; endometrial cancer; ovarian cancer; cervical cancer; neuroblastoma; prostate cancer including castrate-resistant prostate cancer; brain tumors including brain metastases, malignant gliomas, glioblastoma multiforme, medulloblastoma, meningiomas; breast cancer including triple negative breast carcinoma; oral tumors; nasopharyngeal tumors; thoracic cancer; head and neck cancer; leukemias including acute myeloid leukemia, adult T-cell leukemia; carcinomas; adenocarcinomas; thyroid carcinoma including papillary thyroid carcinoma; choriocarcinoma; Ewing's sarcoma; osteosarcoma; rhabdomyosarcoma; Kaposi's sarcoma; lymphoma including Burkitt's lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma, MALT lymphoma; multiple myelomas; and virally induced tumors.

In addition, selective or dual EP2 and/or EP4 antagonists may be useful in several other diseases or disorders responding for example to treatment with COX2 inhibitors, with the advantage that EP2 and/or EP4 antagonists should not possess the potential cardiovascular side effects seen with COX2 inhibitors, which are mainly due to interference with PGI2 and TXA2 synthesis (see for example Boyd M J et al, bioorganic and medicinal chemistry letters 21, 484, 2011). For example, blockade of prostaglandin production by COX inhibitors is the treatment of choice for pain, including especially inflammatory pain and painful menstruation. Thus EP2 and/or EP4 and/or dual EP2/EP4 antagonists may be useful for the treatment of pain, especially inflammatory pain. Evidence from EP2 knockout mice suggest that EP2 antagonists can be used for the treatment of inflammatory hyperalgesia (Reinold H et al, J Clin Invest 2005, 115(3):673-9). In addition, EP4 antagonists have beneficial effect in vivo in inflammatory pain models (eg Murase A, Eur J Pharmacol 2008; Clark P, J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2008; Maubach K A Br J Pharmacol. 2009; Colucci J Bioorg Med Chem Lett. 2010, Boyd M J et al, Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2011, Chn Q et al Br J Phramacol 2010, Nakao K et al, J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2007 August; 322(2):686-94). Administration of an EP2 in combination with an EP4 antagonist showed significant, but partial inhibition of joint inflammation in mouse collagen-induced arthritis model (Honda T et al J Exp Med 2006, 203(2):325-35).

EP2 and/or dual EP2/EP4 antagonists may be of use to decrease female fertility, i.e. they have been shown to prevent pregnancy if used as contraceptive in macaques (Peluffo M C et al Hum Reprod 2014). EP2 knockout mice have decreased fertility, smaller litter sizes and reduced cumulus expansion (Matsumoto et al, Biology of reproduction 2001, 64; 1557-65; Hitzaki et al, PNAS 1999, 96(18), 10501-10506; Tilley S L J Clin Inves 1999, 103(11):1539-45; Kennedy C R et al, Nat Med 1999 5(2):217-20).

There is also rationale that EP2 and/or EP4 antagonists may be of use to prevent or treat endometriosis: for example EP2, EP3 and EP4 and COX2 are overexpressed in endometriosis cell lines and tissues (e.g. Santulli P et al J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2014, 99(3):881-90); antagonist treatment was shown to inhibit the adhesion of endometrial cells in vitro (Lee J et al Biol Reprod 2013, 88(3):77; Lee J et al Fertil Steril 201, 93(8):2498-506); COX2 inhibitors have been shown to reduce endometric lesions in mice via EP2 (Chuang P C et al, Am J Pathol 2010, 176(2):850-60); and antagonist treatment has been shown to induce apoptosis of endometric cells in vitro (Banu S K et al, MOI endocrinol 2009, 23(8) 1291-305).

Dual EP2/EP4 antagonists, or the combination of a selective EP2 antagonists with a selective EP4 antagonist, may be of potential use for autoimmune disorders; e.g. they have been shown to be effective in mouse model for multiple sclerosis (MS) (Esaki Y et al PNAS 2010, 107(27):12233-8; Schiffmann S et al, Biochem Pharmacol. 2014, 87(4): 625-35; see also Kofler D M et al J Clin Invest 2014, 124(6):2513-22). Activation of EP2/EP4 signalling in cells in vitro (Kojima F et al Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2009, 89:26-33) linked dual or selective EP2 and/or EP4 antagonists to the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Also, elevated levels of PGE(2) have been reported in synovial fluid and cartilage from patients with osteoarthritis (OA) and it has been shown that PGE2 stimulates matrix degradation in osteoarthitis chondrocytes via the EP4 receptor (Attur M et al, J Immunol. 2008; 181(7):5082-8).

EP4 overexpression is associated with enhanced inflammatory reaction in atherosclerotic plaques of patients (Cipollone F et al, Artherioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2005, 25(9); 1925-31), thus the use of EP4 and/or dual EP2/EP4 antagonists may be indicated for plaque stabilization and prevention/prophylaxis of acute ischemic syndromes. In addition, EP4 deficiency suppresses early atherosclerosis, by compromising macrophage survival (Babaev V R et al, Cell Metab. 2008 December; 8(6):492-501) EP2 and/or dual EP2/EP4 antagonists may also be useful in the treatment of pneumonia: intrapulmonary administration of apoptotic cells demonstrated that PGE(2) via EP2 accounts for subsequent impairment of lung recruitment of leukocytes and clearance of Streptococcus pneumoniae, as well as enhanced generation of IL-10 in vivo (Medeiros Al et al J Exp Med 2009 206(1):61-8).

EP2 and/or dual EP2/EP4 antagonists may in addition be useful for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases (for review see Cimino P J et al, Curr Med Chem. 2008; 15(19):1863-9). EP2 receptor accelerates progression of inflammation in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) (Liang X et al, Ann Neurol 2008, 64(3):304-14); COX2 inhibitors have been shown to be neuroprotective in rodent models of stroke, Parkinson disease and ALS (for review see Liang X et al J Mol Neurosci 2007, 33(1):94-9), decreased neurotoxicity was observed in EP2 knockout mice treated with parkinsonian toxican (Jin J et al, J Neuroinflammation 2007, 4:2), PGE2 via EP2 aggravates neurodegeneration in cultured rat cells (Takadera T et al, Life Sci 2006, 78(16): 1878-83); Reduced amyloid burden was observed in Alzheimer's disease mouse model if crossed with EP2 knockout mice (Liang X et al J Neurosci 2005, 25(44):10180-7; Keene C D et al, Am J Pathol. 2010, 177(1):346-54). EP2 null mice are protected from CD14-dependent/innate immunity mediated neuronal damage in neurodegenerative disease (Shie F S et al Glia 2005, 52(1):70-7); PGE2 via EP2 increases amyloid precursor protein (APP) expression in cultured rat microglial cells (Pooler A M et al Neurosci. Lett. 2004, 362(2):127-30). EP2 antagonist limits oxidative damage from activation of innate immunity (intracranial injection of LPS) in the brain and could be used for Alzheimer or HIV associated dementia (Montine T J et al, J Neurochem 2002, 83(2):463-70). In an Alzheimer's disease mouse model cognitive function could be improved by genetic and pharmacological inhibition of EP4 (Hoshino T et al, J Neurochem 2012, 120(5):795-805).

EP2 and/or dual EP2/EP4 antagonists may also be useful to treat autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD): PGE2 via EP2 induces cystogenesis of human renal epithelial cells; and EP2 was found to be overexpressed in patient samples (Elberg G et al, Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2007, 293(5):F1622-32).

EP4 and/or dual EP2/EP4 antagonists may also be useful to treat osteoporosis: PGE2 stimulates bone resorption mainly via EP4 and partially via EP2 (Suzawa T et all, Endocrinology. 2000 April; 141(4):1554-9), EP4 knockout mice show impaired bone resorption (Miyaura C et al, J Biol Chem 2000, 275(26): 19819-23) and an EP4 antagonists showed partial inhibition of PGE(2)-stimulated osteoclastogenesis and osteoclastic bone resorption (Tomita M et al, Bone. 2002 January; 30(1):159-63).

WO2008/152093 discloses selective EP2 receptor modulators which comprise an indole ring linked to the rest of the molecule in position 3, and a pyrimidine moiety which however is not substituted with a directly linked aromatic substituent. WO2006/044732 discloses pyrimidine compounds which are modulators of PGD2 claimed to be useful e.g. in the treatment of allergic diseases; however for example the exemplified compound CAS 1001913-77-4 has been tested to be inactive on both the EP2 and the EP4 receptor in the in vitro assay set out in the experimental part below. WO2008/006583 discloses pyrimidin derivatives which are ALK-5 inhibitors. WO2006/044732 and WO2008/039882 disclose certain pyrimidine derivatives as protaglandin D2 receptor antagonists. Pyrimidin-2-yl derivatives are disclosed in WO2013/020945, WO2012/127032, WO2011/144742, WO2011/022348, WO2009/105220, Bioorg. Med. Chem 2011, 21(13) 4108-4114 and Bioorg. Med. Chem 2011, 21(1) 66-75. Further compounds which are claimed to be active as anti-cancer agents are disclosed in WO2006/128129, WO2008/008059 and Bioorg. Med. Chem 2013, 21(2), 540-546. WO2012/149528 discloses 2-methyl-pyrimidine derivatives as inhibitors of the inducible form of Phosphofructose-Kinase, thought to useful in the treatment of cancer by decreasing tumor growth by reducing the extremely high rate of glycolysis in cancer cells. WO2018/013840, WO2013/163190 WO2015/058067, and WO2015/058031 disclose certain DNA-PK inhibitors interacting with DNA repair processes. The disclosed compounds are thought to be useful to sensitize cancer cells by directly modulating cancer cell proliferation, and to enhance the efficacy of both cancer chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

The present invention provides novel pyrimidine derivatives of formulae (I), (II), or (III) which are modulators of the prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4. Certain compounds of the present invention are dual antagonists of both the EP2 and the EP4 receptor. The present compounds may, thus, be useful for the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of diseases which respond to the blockage of the EP2 receptors and/or the EP4 receptors such as especially cancers, wherein a particular aspect is the treatment of cancer by modulating an immune response comprising a reactivation of the immune system in the tumor; as well as pain including especially inflammatory pain and painful menstruation; endometriosis; acute ischemic syndromes in atherosclerotic patients; pneumonia; neurodegenerative diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke; Parkinson disease, Alzheimer's disease and HIV associated dementia; autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease; and to control female fertility.

1) A first aspect of the invention relates to compounds of the formula (I)

for use in the treatment of a cancer, wherein said cancer is treated by modulating an immune response comprising a reactivation of the immune system in the tumor; wherein said cancer is notably a cancer selected from melanoma including metastatic melanoma; lung cancer including non-small cell lung cancer; bladder cancer including urinary bladder cancer, urothelial cell carcinoma; renal carcinomas including renal cell carcinoma, metastatic renal cell carcinoma, metastatic renal clear cell carcinoma; gastro-intestinal cancers including colorectal cancer, metastatic colorectal cancer, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), oesophageal cancer, gastric cancer, gallbladder cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and pancreatic cancer such as pancreatic adenocarcinoma or pancreatic ductal carcinoma; endometrial cancer; ovarian cancer; cervical cancer; neuroblastoma; prostate cancer including castrate-resistant prostate cancer; brain tumors including brain metastases, malignant gliomas, glioblastoma multiforme, medulloblastoma, meningiomas; breast cancer including triple negative breast carcinoma; oral tumors; nasopharyngeal tumors; thoracic cancer; head and neck cancer; leukemias including acute myeloid leukemia, adult T-cell leukemia; carcinomas; adenocarcinomas; thyroid carcinoma including papillary thyroid carcinoma; choriocarcinoma; Ewing's sarcoma; osteosarcoma; rhabdomyosarcoma; Kaposi's sarcoma; lymphoma including Burkitt's lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma, MALT lymphoma; multiple myelomas; and virally induced tumors (especially such cancer is selected from melanoma; lung cancer; bladder cancer; renal carcinomas; gastro-intestinal cancers; endometrial cancer; ovarian cancer; cervical cancer; and neuroblastoma); wherein said compound is optionally used in combination with one or more chemotherapy agents and/or radiotherapy and/or targeted therapy; wherein in compounds of the formula (I) ring (A) in the fragment:

represents an aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring or a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring, which ring (A) is fused to the phenyl group, wherein independently said ring (A) optionally contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur (notably such fused group is benzofuranyl, benzothiophenyl, benzothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, indolyl, indazolyl, naphthyl, quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophenyl, benzo[1,3]dioxolyl, 1,3-dihydro-isobenzofuranyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl, indanyl, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalenyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[1,4]dioxinyl, chromanyl, 3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[1,4]oxazinyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolinyl); wherein said fragment is optionally substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, three, or four optional substituents (i.e. said fragment is unsubstituted, or substituted with one, two, three, or four R¹), wherein said substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₂₋₃)alkenyl (especially vinyl), (C₂₋₃)alkynyl (especially ethynyl), (C₁₋₃)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, isopropoxy), halogen (especially fluoro, or chloro), —S—(C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methylsulfanyl), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially trifluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy), cyano, oxo, or amino; R³ represents hydrogen, methyl or trifluoromethyl (especially hydrogen); R^(4a) and R^(4b) independently represent hydrogen, methyl, or R^(4a) and R^(4b) together with the carbon atom to which they are attached represent a cycloprop-1,1-diyl group; R^(5a) and R^(5b) independently represent hydrogen, methyl, or R^(5a) and R^(5b) together with the carbon atom to which they are attached represent a cycloprop-1,1-diyl group; Ar¹ represents

-   (i) phenyl, or 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl (notably 5-membered     heteroaryl, especially thiophenyl or thiazolyl); wherein said phenyl     or 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl independently is mono-, di- or     tri-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently selected     from     -   (C₁₋₆)alkyl (especially methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl,         n-butyl, isobutyl, 1-methyl-propan-1-yl, tert.-butyl,         3-methyl-butyl);     -   (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, isopropoxy,         n-butoxy, isobutoxy);     -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, wherein said (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl is optionally         substituted with hydroxy (especially trifluoromethyl,         2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-ethyl);     -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially difluoromethoxy,         trifluoromethoxy, 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy);     -   halogen (especially fluoro, chloro, bromo);     -   cyano;     -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl, wherein said (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl is unsubstituted         or mono-substituted with amino (especially cyclopropyl,         1-amino-cyclopropyl);     -   (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom, wherein said         (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom is unsubstituted         or mono-substituted with hydroxy (especially         3-hydroxy-oxetan-3-yl);     -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy (especially cyclobutyl-oxy,         cyclopentyl-oxy);     -   hydroxy;     -   —X¹—CO—R^(O1), wherein         -   X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene (especially             —CH₂—, —CH(CH₃)—, —C(CH₃)₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—), —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*             (especially —O—CH₂—*, —O—CH(CH₃)—*, —O—C(CH₃)₂—*,             —O—CH₂—CH₂—*), —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —NH—CH₂—*,             —NH—CH(CH₃)—*), —S—CH₂—*, —CF₂—, —CH═CH—, —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*,             —CO—, or (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate             the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and         -   R^(O1) represents             -   —OH;             -   —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially ethoxy, methoxy);             -   —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl,                 (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally                 contains a ring oxygen atom,                 (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the                 (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom,                 (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂;             -   —O—CH₂—CO—R^(O4), wherein R^(O4) represents hydroxy, or                 (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, or —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂;             -   —O—CH₂—O—CO—R^(O5), wherein R^(O5) represents                 (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy;             -   —O—CH₂—CH₂—N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂ (especially                 —O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂); or             -   (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyloxy-;         -   [wherein in particular such group —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents             —COOH, —CO—O—CH₃, —CO—O—C₂H₅, —O—CH₂—COOH, —O—CH(CH₃)—COOH,             —O—C(CH₃)₂—COOH, —O—CH₂—CH₂—COOH, —NH—CH₂—COOH,             —NH—CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —NH—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —CO—NH—SO₂—CH₃,             —CO—NH—SO₂—C(CH₃)₂, —CO—NH—SO₂-cyclopropyl, —CO—NH—SO₂—C₂H₅,             —CO—NH—SO₂—NH₂, —CO—O—CH₂—COOH, —CO—O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂,             —CO—O—CH₂—CO—N(CH₃)₂, —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO—O—C₂H₅,             —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO-propyl,             (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyl-O—CO—, —CH₂—COOH,             —CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —CH₂—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CH₂—CH₂—COOH, —CH═CH—COOH,             —CH═CH—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CF₂—COOH, —NH—CO—COOH, —CO—COOH,             1-carboxy-cyclopropan-1-yl];     -   —CO—CH₂—OH;

-   -   2-hydroxy-3,4-dioxo-cyclobut-1-enyl;     -   hydroxy-(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially hydroxymethyl, 1-hydroxy-ethyl);     -   dihydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl (especially 1,2-dihydroxyethyl);     -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy);     -   (C₁₋₄)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-methoxy-ethoxy);     -   —(CH₂)_(r)—CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein r represents the integer 0         or 1; and wherein R^(N3) and R^(N4) independently represent         hydrogen, (C₁₋₄)alkyl, hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl,         (C₁₋₃)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, or hydroxy (wherein preferably at         least one of R^(N3) and R^(N4) represents hydrogen; and wherein         particular examples of such group —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) are —CO—NH₂,         —CO—NH(CH₃), —CO—NH(C₂H₅), —CH₂—CO—NH₂, —CO—NH—C₂H₄—OH,         —CO—NH—C₂H₄—OCH₃, or —CO—N(CH₃)₂, —CO—NH-isopropyl, or         —CO—NH—OH);     -   —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2), wherein X² represents —(CH₂)_(m)—, wherein m         represents the integer 0 or 1; or X² represents         —O—CH₂—CH₂—*,wherein the asterisk indicates the bond that is         linked to the —NR^(N1)R^(N2) group; and wherein         -   R^(N1) and R^(N2) independently represent hydrogen,             (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₁₋₄)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl, or             (C₂₋₃)fluoroalkyl;         -   or R^(N1) independently represents hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl,             and R^(N2) independently represents —CO—H, —CO—(C₁₋₃)alkyl,             —CO—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-OH, or —CO—O—(C₁₋₃)alkyl;         -   or R^(N1) and R^(N2) together with the nitrogen to which             they are attached form a 4-, 5- or 6-membered saturated ring             optionally containing one ring oxygen or ring sulfur atom,             wherein said ring is unsubstituted, or mono-substituted with             oxo on a ring carbon atom, or disubstituted with oxo on a             ring sulfur atom;         -   (especially such group —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2) represents amino,             methylamino, ethylamino, propylamino, amino-methyl,             methylamino-methyl, isobutylamino-methyl,             cyclopropylamino-methyl, cyclobutylamino-methyl,             (2-methoxyethyl)amino-methyl, (2,2,2-trifluoro-ethyl)-amino;             or —NH—CO—H, —N(C₂H₅)—CO—H, —NH—CO—C₂H₅, —NH—CO—CH₂—CH₂—OH,             —NH—CO—O—CH₃, —N(CH₃)—CO—O—CH₃; or pyrrolidin-1-yl,             2-oxo-pyrrolidin-1-yl, 1,1-dioxo-isothiazolidin-2-yl,             morpholin-4-yl, azetidin-1-yl, or piperidin-1-yl; or             2-(dimethylamino)-ethoxy);     -   —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) wherein R^(N5) and R^(N6) independently         represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (wherein preferably at least         one of R^(N5) and R^(N6) represents hydrogen; and wherein         particular examples of such group —NH—CO—NR^(N)R^(N6) are         —NH—CO—NH₂, —NH—CO—NH—C₂H₅);     -   —SO₂—R^(S1) wherein R^(S1) represents hydroxy, (C₁₋₄)alkyl         (especially methyl), or —NR^(N7)R^(N8) wherein R^(N7) and R^(N8)         independently represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₃)alkyl (wherein         preferably at least one of R^(N7) and R^(N8) represents         hydrogen; and wherein particular examples of such group         —SO₂—R^(S1) are —SO₂—CH₃, —SO₂—NH₂, —SO₂—OH, —SO₂—NH—CH₃);     -   —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially         methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, isobutyl), (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl         optionally containing one ring oxygen atom (especially         cyclobutyl, oxetan-3-yl);     -   —(CH₂)_(q)-HET¹, wherein q represents the integer 0, 1 or 2         (especially q is 0, i.e. HET¹ is linked to Ar by a direct bond);         and wherein HET¹ represents         5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its         tautomeric form 5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl),         3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl (encompassing its         tautomeric form 3-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl), or         5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its         tautomeric form 5-mercapto-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl);     -   —(CH₂)_(p)-HET, wherein p represents the integer 0 or 1         (especially p is 0, i.e. HET is linked to Ar¹ by a direct bond);         and wherein HET represents a 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl         (especially 5-membered heteroaryl selected from oxazolyl,         isoxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, thiazolyl, isothiazolyl, thiadiazolyl,         imidazolyl, pyrazolyl, triazolyl, and tetrazolyl), wherein said         5- or 6-membered heteroaryl is unsubstituted, or mono- or         di-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently         selected from (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₁₋₄)alkoxy         (especially methoxy), —COOH, hydroxy, hydroxy-(C₁₋₃)alkyl         (especially hydroxymethyl), (C₃₋₅)cycloalkyl optionally         containing one ring oxygen atom (especially cyclopropyl,         oxetan-3-yl), or —NR^(N9)R^(N10) wherein R^(N9) and R^(N10)         independently represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially         methyl), or hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl (especially 2-hydroxy-ethyl);         (especially such group —(CH₂)_(p)-HET is 1H-tetrazol-5-yl,         3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl,         3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-amino-oxazol-5-yl,         5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,         5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,         5-methoxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 5-amino-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,         5-[(2-hydroxy-ethyl)]-amino)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,         5-hydroxymethyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,         5-(oxetan-3-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 1H-imidazol-4-yl,         5-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 2,5-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl)

-   (ii) or Ar¹ represents 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl     (notably 9- or 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl; especially     indazolyl, benzoimidazolyl, indolyl, benzotriazolyl, benzofuranyl,     benzooxazolyl, quinoxalinyl, isoquinolinyl, quinolinyl,     pyrrolopyridinyl, or imidazopyridinyl); wherein said 8- to     10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl independently is unsubstituted,     mono-, or di-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently     selected from (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl); (C₁₋₄)alkoxy     (especially methoxy); (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially     trifluoromethyl); (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially trifluoromethoxy);     halogen; cyano; hydroxy, or —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O2) wherein R^(O2)     represents hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially such group     —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O2) is —COOH); (especially such 8- to     10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl, if unsubstituted, is     1H-benzoimidazol-5-yl, 1H-indol-6-yl, 1H-indol-5-yl, 1H-indol-2-yl,     1H-indazol-5-yl, isoquinolin-7-yl, quinolin-6-yl; or, if     substituted, is 3-carboxy-1H-indol-6-yl, 4-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl,     5-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 6-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl,     7-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 5-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl,     6-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl), 6-carboxy-benzofuran-2-yl,     3-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl, 2-carboxy-benzofuran-5-yl, or     2-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl);

-   (iii) or Ar¹ represents a group of the structure (Ar-III):

-   -   wherein ring (B) represents a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring         fused to the phenyl group, wherein ring (B) comprises one or two         heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen and oxygen         (notably such group (Ar-III) is 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl,         2,3-dihydro-1H-indolyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[1,4]dioxinyl,         2,3-dihydro-1H-indazolyl, 2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[d]imidazolyl,         2,3-dihydrobenzo[d]isoxazolyl, 2,3-dihydro-isoindolyl,         2,3-dihydro-benzooxazolyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolinyl,         1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolinyl, or         1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-phthalazinyl); wherein said ring (B)         independently is unsubstituted, mono-, or di-substituted,         wherein the substituents are independently selected from oxo,         (C₁₋₆)alkyl (especially methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, isobutyl)         and —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O3) wherein R^(O3) represents hydrogen         or (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially such group (Ar-III) is         2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-6-yl,         3-methyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-5-yl,         1-methyl-3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indazol-6-yl,         2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl,         1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl,         1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-6-yl,         1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-7-yl, or         1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-7-yl).

In a sub-embodiment, Ar¹ especially represents

-   -   phenyl, or 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl; wherein said phenyl or         5- or 6-membered heteroaryl independently is mono-, di- or         tri-substituted (especially di-substituted),         -   wherein one of said substituents is selected from             (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom, wherein said             (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom is             unsubstituted or mono-substituted with hydroxy; hydroxy;

-   -   X¹—CO—R^(O1); 2-hydroxy-3,4-dioxo-cyclobut-1-enyl;         hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy; —(CH₂)_(r)—CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4);         —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6); —SO₂—R^(S1); —(CH₂)_(q)-HET¹;         —(CH₂)_(p)-HET;         -   and the other of said substituents, if present,             independently are selected from (C₁₋₆)alkyl; (C₁₋₄)alkoxy;             (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy; halogen; cyano;             (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl, wherein said (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl is             unsubstituted or mono-substituted with amino;             (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy; hydroxy; hydroxy-(C₁₋₄)alkyl;             dihydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl; hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy;             (C₁₋₄)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy; —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2); —S—R^(S2);     -   wherein the above groups and substituents are as defined in         embodiment 1).     -   or Ar¹ represents 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl as         defined in embodiment 1); wherein said 8- to 10-membered         bicyclic heteroaryl independently is unsubstituted, mono-, or         di-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently         selected from (C₁₋₄)alkyl; (C₁₋₄)alkoxy; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl;         (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy; halogen; cyano; hydroxy, or         —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O2) wherein R^(O2) represents hydrogen or         (C₁₋₄)alkyl;     -   or Ar¹ represents a group of the structure (Ar-III) as defined         in embodiment 1).

The compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) may contain one or more stereogenic or asymmetric centers, such as one or more asymmetric carbon atoms, which are allowed to be present in (R)- as well as (S)-configuration. The compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) may further encompass compounds with one or more double bonds which are allowed to be present in Z- as well as E-configuration and/or compounds with substituents at a ring system which are allowed to be present, relative to each other, in cis- as well as trans-configuration. The compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) may thus be present as mixtures of stereoisomers or preferably as pure stereoisomers. Mixtures of stereoisomers may be separated in a manner known to a person skilled in the art.

In case a particular compound (or generic structure) is designated as (R)- or (S)-enantiomer, such designation is to be understood as referring to the respective compound (or generic structure) in enriched, especially essentially pure, enantiomeric form. Likewise, in case a specific asymmetric center in a compound is designated as being in (R)- or (S)-configuration or as being in a certain relative configuration, such designation is to be understood as referring to the compound that is in enriched, especially essentially pure, form with regard to the respective configuration of said asymmetric center. In analogy, cis- or trans-designations are to be understood as referring to the respective stereoisomer of the respective relative configuration in enriched, especially essentially pure, form. Likewise, in case a particular compound (or generic structure) is designated as Z- or E-stereoisomer (or in case a specific double bond in a compound is designated as being in Z- or E-configuration), such designation is to be understood as referring to the respective compound (or generic structure) in enriched, especially essentially pure, stereoisomeric form (or to the compound that is in enriched, especially essentially pure, form with regard to the respective configuration of the double bond).

The term “enriched”, when used in the context of stereoisomers, is to be understood in the context of the present invention to mean that the respective stereoisomer is present in a ratio of at least 70:30, especially of at least 90:10 (i.e., in a purity of at least 70% by weight, especially of at least 90% by weight), with regard to the respective other stereoisomer/the entirety of the respective other stereoisomers.

The term “essentially pure”, when used in the context of stereoisomers, is to be understood in the context of the present invention to mean that the respective stereoisomer is present in a purity of at least 95% by weight, especially of at least 99% by weight, with regard to the respective other stereoisomer/the entirety of the respective other stereoisomers.

The present invention also includes isotopically labelled, especially ²H (deuterium) labelled compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) according to embodiments 1) to 29), which compounds are identical to the compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (Ill) except that one or more atoms have each been replaced by an atom having the same atomic number but an atomic mass different from the atomic mass usually found in nature. Isotopically labelled, especially ²H (deuterium) labelled compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) and salts thereof are within the scope of the present invention. Substitution of hydrogen with the heavier isotope ²H (deuterium) may lead to greater metabolic stability, resulting e.g. in increased in-vivo half-life or reduced dosage requirements, or may lead to reduced inhibition of cytochrome P450 enzymes, resulting e.g. in an improved safety profile. In one embodiment of the invention, the compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) are not isotopically labelled, or they are labelled only with one or more deuterium atoms. In a sub-embodiment, the compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) are not isotopically labelled at all. Isotopically labelled compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) may be prepared in analogy to the methods described hereinafter, but using the appropriate isotopic variation of suitable reagents or starting materials.

In this patent application, a bond drawn as a dotted line shows the point of attachment of the radical drawn. For example, the radical drawn below

is the 2-methyl-1H-indol-1-yl group.

In some instances, the compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) may contain tautomeric forms. Such tautomeric forms are encompassed in the scope of the present invention. In case tautomeric forms exist of a certain residue, and only one form of such residue is disclosed or defined, the other tautomeric form(s) are understood to be encompassed in such disclosed residue. For example the group 2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-5-yl is to be understood as also encompassing its tautomeric forms 2-hydroxy-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-5-yl and 2-hydroxy-3H-benzo[d]imidazol-5-yl. Similarly, 5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (alternatively named 5-oxo-4H-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl) encompasses its tautomeric form 5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, and 3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl (alternatively named 3-oxo-2H-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl) encompasses its tautomeric form 3-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl.

Where the plural form is used for compounds, salts, pharmaceutical compositions, diseases and the like, this is intended to mean also a single compound, salt, or the like.

Any reference to compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) according to embodiments 1) to 29) is to be understood as referring also to the salts (and especially the pharmaceutically acceptable salts) of such compounds, as appropriate and expedient.

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable salts” refers to salts that retain the desired biological activity of the subject compound and exhibit minimal undesired toxicological effects. Such salts include inorganic or organic acid and/or base addition salts depending on the presence of basic and/or acidic groups in the subject compound. For reference see for example “Handbook of Pharmaceutical Salts. Properties, Selection and Use.”, P. Heinrich Stahl, Camille G. Wermuth (Eds.), Wiley-VCH, 2008; and “Pharmaceutical Salts and Co-crystals”, Johan Wouters and Luc Quéré (Eds.), RSC Publishing, 2012.

Definitions provided herein are intended to apply uniformly to the compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III), as defined in any one of embodiments 1) to 22), and, mutatis mutandis, throughout the description and the claims unless an otherwise expressly set out definition provides a broader or narrower definition. It is well understood that a definition or preferred definition of a term defines and may replace the respective term independently of (and in combination with) any definition or preferred definition of any or all other terms as defined herein. Whenever the group Ar¹ or substituents thereof are further defined, such definitions are intended to apply mutatis mutandis also to the groups (Ar-I), (Ar-II), and (Ar-III) and their respective substituents.

Whenever a substituent is denoted as optional, it is understood that such substituent may be absent (i.e. the respective residue is unsubstituted with regard to such optional substituent), in which case all positions having a free valency (to which such optional substituent could have been attached to; such as for example in an aromatic ring the ring carbon atoms and/or the ring nitrogen atoms having a free valency) are substituted with hydrogen where appropriate. Likewise, in case the term “optionally” is used in the context of (ring) heteroatom(s), the term means that either the respective optional heteroatom(s), or the like, are absent (i.e. a certain moiety does not contain heteroatom(s)/I is a carbocycle/or the like), or the respective optional heteroatom(s), or the like, are present as explicitly defined.

The term “halogen” means fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine; especially fluorine, chlorine, or bromine; preferably fluorine or chlorine.

The term “alkyl”, used alone or in combination, refers to a saturated straight or branched chain hydrocarbon group containing one to six carbon atoms. The term “(C_(x-y))alkyl” (x and y each being an integer), refers to an alkyl group as defined before, containing x to y carbon atoms. For example a (C₁₋₆)alkyl group contains from one to six carbon atoms. Examples of alkyl groups are methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, tert.-butyl, 3-methyl-butyl, 2,2-dimethyl-propyl and 3,3-dimethyl-butyl. For avoidance of any doubt, in case a group is referred to as e.g. propyl or butyl, it is meant to be n-propyl, respectively n-butyl. Preferred are methyl and ethyl. Most preferred is methyl. Preferred for substituents of Ar¹ being phenyl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl are methyl, ethyl, propyl, isobutyl, 1-methyl-propan-1-yl, tert.-butyl, 3-methyl-butyl.

The term “—(C_(x-y))alkylene-”, used alone or in combination, refers to bivalently bound alkyl group as defined before containing x to y carbon atoms. Preferably, the points of attachment of a —(C_(1-y))alkylene group are in 1,1-diyl, in 1,2-diyl, or in 1,3-diyl arrangement. In case a (C_(0-y))alkylene group is used in combination with another substituent, the term means that either said substituent is linked through a (C_(1-y))alkylene group to the rest of the molecule, or it is directly attached to the rest of the molecule (i.e. a (C₀)alkylene group represents a direct bond linking said substituent to the rest of the molecule). The alkylene group —C₂H₄— refers to —CH₂—CH₂— if not explicitly indicated otherwise. For the linker X¹, examples of (C₁₋₃)alkylene groups are —CH₂—, —CH(CH₃)—, —C(CH₃)₂—, and —CH₂—CH₂—, especially —CH₂— and —CH₂—CH₂—. Examples of (C₀₋₃)alkylene groups as used in the substituents —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O2) and (C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O3), respectively, are (C₀)alkylene, and methylene, respectively.

The term “alkoxy”, used alone or in combination, refers to an alkyl-O— group wherein the alkyl group is as defined before. The term “(C_(x-y))alkoxy” (x and y each being an integer) refers to an alkoxy group as defined before containing x to y carbon atoms. For example a (C₁₋₄)alkoxy group means a group of the formula (C₁₋₄)alkyl-O— in which the term “(C₁₋₄)alkyl” has the previously given significance. Examples of alkoxy groups are methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, isopropoxy, n-butoxy, isobutoxy, sec.-butoxy and tert.-butoxy. Preferred are ethoxy and especially methoxy. Preferred for substituents of Ar¹ being phenyl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl are methoxy, ethoxy, propoxy, butoxy, isobutoxy.

The term “fluoroalkyl”, used alone or in combination, refers to an alkyl group as defined before containing one to three carbon atoms in which one or more (and possibly all) hydrogen atoms have been replaced with fluorine. The term “(C_(x-y))fluoroalkyl” (x and y each being an integer) refers to a fluoroalkyl group as defined before containing x to y carbon atoms. For example a (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl group contains from one to three carbon atoms in which one to seven hydrogen atoms have been replaced with fluorine. Representative examples of fluoroalkyl groups include trifluoromethyl, 2-fluoroethyl, 2,2-difluoroethyl and 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl. Preferred are (C₁)fluoroalkyl groups such as trifluoromethyl. An example of “(C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, wherein said (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl is optionally substituted with hydroxy” is 2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-ethyl.

The term “fluoroalkoxy”, used alone or in combination, refers to an alkoxy group as defined before containing one to three carbon atoms in which one or more (and possibly all) hydrogen atoms have been replaced with fluorine. The term “(C_(x-y))fluoroalkoxy” (x and y each being an integer) refers to a fluoroalkoxy group as defined before containing x to y carbon atoms. For example a (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy group contains from one to three carbon atoms in which one to seven hydrogen atoms have been replaced with fluorine. Representative examples of fluoroalkoxy groups include trifluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy, 2-fluoroethoxy, 2,2-difluoroethoxy and 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy. Preferred are (C₁)fluoroalkoxy groups such as trifluoromethoxy and difluoromethoxy, as well as 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy.

The term “cycloalkyl”, used alone or in combination, refers to a saturated monocyclic hydrocarbon ring containing three to six carbon atoms. The term “(C_(x-y))cycloalkyl” (x and y each being an integer), refers to a cycloalkyl group as defined before containing x to y carbon atoms. For example a (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl group contains from three to six carbon atoms. Examples of cycloalkyl groups are cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, and cycloheptyl. Preferred are cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, and cyclopentyl; especially cyclopropyl. An example of cycloalkyl groups containing one ring oxygen atom is especially oxetanyl. Examples of (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl groups wherein said (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl is optionally mono-substituted with amino are cyclopropyl, 1-amino-cyclopropyl. Examples of (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl groups wherein said (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl is mono-substituted with —COOH are 1-carboxy-cyclopropyl, 1-carboxy-cyclopentyl.

The term “—(C_(x-y))cycloalkylene-”, used alone or in combination, refers to bivalently bound cycloalkyl group as defined before containing x to y carbon atoms. Preferably, the points of attachment of any bivalently bound cycloalkyl group are in 1,1-diyl, or in 1,2-diyl arrangement. Examples are cyclopropan-1,1-diyl, cyclopropan-1,2-diyl, and cyclopentan-1,1-diyl; preferred is cyclopropan-1,1-diyl.

Examples of (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy are cyclobutyl-oxy, and cyclopentyl-oxy.

Alkylated amino groups —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂ as used in groups —X¹—CO—R¹, wherein R^(O1) represents —O—CH₂—CO—R⁴, wherein R^(O4) represents —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂; or wherein R^(O1) represents —O—CH₂—CH₂—N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂ are such that the two respective (C₁₋₄)alkyl groups are independently selected. A preferred example of such amino group —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂ is —N(CH₃)₂.

The term “heterocycle”, used alone or in combination, and if not explicitly defined in a broader or more narrow way, refers to a saturated monocyclic hydrocarbon ring containing one or two (especially one) ring heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen (especially one nitrogen atom, two nitrogen atoms, one nitrogen atom and one oxygen atom, or one nitrogen atom and one sulfur atom). The term “(C_(x-y))heterocycle” refers to such a heterocycle containing x to y ring atoms. Heterocycles are unsubstituted or substituted as explicitly defined.

A group composed of a “non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring fused to the phenyl group, wherein ring (B) comprises one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen and oxygen” as used for (Ar-III) refers to phenyl groups which are fused to a (C₅₋₆)heterocycle as defined before. Examples are 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl, 2,3-dihydro-1H-indolyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[1,4]dioxinyl, 2,3-dihydro-1H-indazolyl, 2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[d]imidazolyl, 2,3-dihydrobenzo[d]isoxazolyl, 2,3-dihydro-isoindolyl, 3-dihydro-benzooxazol-6-yl, 2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-5-yl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-7-yl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-6-yl, and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-phthalazin-6-yl. The above groups are unsubstituted, mono-, or di-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently selected from oxo, (C₁₋₆)alkyl, and —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O3) wherein R^(O3) represents hydrogen or (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl); especially substituents are independently selected from oxo, methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, isobutyl, or —COOH; wherein the substituents are attached to the fused 5- or 6-membered non-aromatic ring. Oxo substituents are preferably attached to a ring carbon atom which is in alpha position to a ring nitrogen atom. Preferred examples of such groups are 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl, 2,3-dihydro-1H-indolyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[1,4]dioxinyl; as well as the oxosubstituted heterocyclyl groups 3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indazolyl, 2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[d]imidazolyl, 3-oxo-2,3-dihydrobenzo[d]isoxazolyl, 2-oxo-1,3-dihydro-indolyl, 1-oxo-2,3-dihydro-isoindolyl, 2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazolyl, 2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolinyl, 1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolinyl, 1,4-dioxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-phthalazinyl; wherein the above groups optionally carry one (further) substituent independently selected from (C₁₋₆)alkyl, and —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O3) wherein R^(O3) represents hydrogen or (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl). Particular examples are 2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-6-yl, 3-methyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-5-yl, 1-methyl-3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indazol-6-yl, 2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl, 1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl, 1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-6-yl, 1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-7-yl, or 1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-7-yl.

For avoidance of doubt, certain groups having tautomeric forms which are considered predominantly non-aromatic, such as for example 2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-benzo[d]imidazolyl groups, are defined herein as 8- to 10-membered partially aromatic fused bicyclic heterocyclyl groups, even though their corresponding tautomeric form (2-hydroxy-1H-benzo[d]imidazolyl) could also be considered as a 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl group.

Examples of the fragment:

wherein ring (A) represents an aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring which ring (A) is fused to the phenyl group, wherein said ring (A) optionally contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur are indolyl, isoindolyl, benzofuranyl, isobenzofuranyl, benzothiophenyl, indazolyl, benzimidazolyl, benzoxazolyl, benzisoxazolyl, benzothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, cinnolinyl, quinazolinyl, quinoxalinyl, and phthalazinyl (notably benzofuranyl, benzothiophenyl, benzothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, indolyl, indazolyl, naphthyl, quinolinyl, and isoquinolinyl). The above groups are unsubstituted or substituted as explicitly defined.

Examples of the fragment:

wherein ring (A) represents a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring, which ring (A) is fused to the phenyl group, wherein said ring (A) optionally contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur are 2,3-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophenyl, benzo[1,3]dioxolyl, 1,3-dihydro-isobenzofuranyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl, indanyl, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalenyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[1,4]dioxinyl, chromanyl, 3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[1,4]oxazinyl, and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolinyl. The above groups are unsubstituted or substituted as explicitly defined.

The term “aryl”, used alone or in combination, means phenyl or naphthyl, especially phenyl. The above-mentioned aryl groups are unsubstituted or substituted as explicitly defined.

Examples of the substituent Ar¹ representing phenyl are especially those which are at least mono-substituted in para position with respect to the point of attachment of the rest of the molecule. In addition, such group Ar¹ representing phenyl may carry one or two further substituents, especially in one or both meta positions with respect to the point of attachment of the rest of the molecule. The respective substituents of such phenyl groups are as explicitly defined.

The term “heteroaryl”, used alone or in combination, means a 5- to 10-membered monocyclic or bicyclic aromatic ring containing one to a maximum of four heteroatoms, each independently selected from oxygen, nitrogen and sulfur. Examples of such heteroaryl groups are 5-membered heteroaryl groups such as furanyl, oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, thiophenyl, thiazolyl, isothiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, pyrrolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl, triazolyl, tetrazolyl; 6-membered heteroaryl groups such as pyridinyl, pyrimidinyl, pyridazinyl, pyrazinyl; and 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl groups such as indolyl, isoindolyl, benzofuranyl, isobenzofuranyl, benzothiophenyl, indazolyl, benzimidazolyl, benzoxazolyl, benzisoxazolyl, benzothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, benzotriazolyl, benzoxadiazolyl, benzothiadiazolyl, thienopyridinyl, quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, naphthyridinyl, cinnolinyl, quinazolinyl, quinoxalinyl, phthalazinyl, pyrrolopyridinyl, pyrazolopyridinyl, pyrazolopyrimidinyl, pyrrolopyrazinyl, imidazopyridinyl, imidazopyridazinyl, and imidazothiazolyl. The above-mentioned heteroaryl groups are unsubstituted or substituted as explicitly defined.

For the substituent Ar¹ representing a “5- or 6-membered heteroaryl”, the term means the above-mentioned 5- or 6-membered groups such as especially pyridinyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrrolyl, pyrazolyl, isoxazolyl, thiazolyl or thiophenyl. Notably, the term refers to 5-membered groups such as especially thiazolyl or thiophenyl; in particular thiophen-2-yl, thiophen-3-yl, thiazol-2-yl, thiazol-4-yl, thiazol-5-yl. Preferred is thiophenyl, especially thiophen-2-yl; or thiazolyl, especially thiazol-2-yl. The above groups are substituted as explicitly defined. Thiophen-2-yl or thiazol-2-yl are especially di-substituted with one substituent being in position 5, and a second substituent in position 4 (and, for thiophen-2-yl, optionally a halogen substituent in position 3).

For the substituent Ar¹ representing a “8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl” the term means the above-mentioned 8- to 10-membered heteroaryl groups. Notably, the term refers to 9- or 10-membered heteroaryl groups, such as especially indazolyl, benzoimidazolyl, indolyl, benzotriazolyl, benzooxazolyl, quinoxalinyl, isoquinolinyl, quinolinyl, pyrrolopyridinyl, and imidazopyridinyl. The above groups are unsubstituted or substituted as explicitly defined.

Particular examples are 1H-indol-2-yl, 1H-indol-3-yl, 1H-indol-4-yl, 1H-indol-5-yl, 1H-indol-6-yl, 1-methyl-1H-indol-5-yl, 1H-indazol-5-yl, 1H-indazol-6-yl, 1-methyl-1H-indazol-6-yl, 3-methyl-1H-indazol-6-yl, 3-methoxy-1H-indazol-6-yl, 6-methoxy-1H-indazol-5-yl, 1H-benzoimidazol-5-yl, 2-methyl-1H-benzoimidazol-5-yl, 2-trifluoromethyl-1H-benzoimidazol-5-yl, 1H-benzotriazol-5-yl, 2-methyl-benzooxazol-5-yl, 2-methyl-benzooxazol-6-yl, quinoxalin-6-yl, isoquinolin-7-yl, quinolin-6-yl, 1H-pyrrolo[2,3-c]pyridin-3-yl, 1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridin-3-yl, 1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridin-5-yl, 1-methyl-1H-pyrrolo[2,3-b]pyridin-5-yl, imidazo[1,2-a]pyridin-6-yl, 2-carboxy-1H-indol-5-yl, 3-carboxy-1H-indol-6-yl, 4-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 5-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 6-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 7-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 7-carboxy-1H-indol-4-yl, 7-carboxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl, 5-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl, 6-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl), 6-carboxy-benzofuran-2-yl, 3-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl, 2-carboxy-benzofuran-5-yl, and 2-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl. Preferred examples are 1H-benzoimidazol-5-yl, 1H-indol-6-yl, 1H-indol-5-yl, 1H-indol-2-yl, 1H-indazol-5-yl, as well as 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl which are mono-substituted with —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O2) such as 3-carboxy-1H-indol-6-yl, 4-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 5-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 6-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 7-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 5-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl, 6-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl), 6-carboxy-benzofuran-2-yl, 3-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl, 2-carboxy-benzofuran-5-yl, and 2-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl.

For the substituent “—(CH₂)_(p)-HET, wherein p represents the integer 0 or 1, and wherein HET represents a 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl”, such 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl is as defined before; notably a nitrogen containing 5-membered heteroaryl such as especially tetrazolyl, or oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, thiazolyl, isothiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl, or triazolyl. The above groups are unsubstituted or substituted as explicitly defined. The group —(CH₂)_(p)— is preferably absent, i.e. p represents the integer 0 and the group HET is directly bound to Ar¹. Particular examples of —(CH₂)_(p)-HET are especially the —(CH₂)₀-HET groups 1H-tetrazol-5-yl, 3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl; further examples are 3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-amino-oxazol-5-yl, 5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl, 5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl, 5-methoxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 5-amino-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 5-[(2-hydroxy-ethyl)]-amino)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 5-hydroxymethyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 5-(oxetan-3-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 1H-imidazol-4-yl, 5-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, and 2,5-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl; as well as 1H-pyrazol-1-yl, 1H-pyrazol-3-yl, 3-methyl-pyrazol-1-yl, 1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl, 5-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl, 3,5-dimethyl-pyrazol-1-yl, 4-carboxy-1H-pyrazol-3-yl, 1H-imidazol-2-yl, 3-methyl-3H-imidazol-4-yl, 2-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 1,5-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-2-yl, 1,2-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 1,5-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 2-cyclopropyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 2-cyclopropyl-1-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, [1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl, 5-methyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 3-methyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl, 5-methyl-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-2-yl, isothiazol-5-yl, thiazol-2-yl, thiazol-4-yl, 4-methyl-thiazol-2-yl, 2-methyl-thiazol-4-yl, 2-amino-5-methyl-thiazol-4-yl, 4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl, 4-carboxy-thiazol-2-yl, 2-carboxy-thiazol-4-yl, 2-hydroxy-thiazol-4-yl, 2-amino-2-oxoethyl)thiazol-4-yl, isoxazol-3-yl, isoxazol-5-yl, 3-methyl-isoxazol-5-yl, 4-methyl-isoxazol-5-yl, 4-carboxy-3-methyl-isoxazol-5-yl, oxazol-5-yl, 2-methyl-oxazol-5-yl, 2-(2-carboxyethyl)-oxazol-5-yl, 2-(2-carboxyethyl)-4-methyl-oxazol-5-yl, 4H-[1,2,4]triazol-3-yl, 1H-[1,2,4]triazol-1-yl, 2-methyl-2H-[1,2,4]triazol-3-yl, pyridin-2-yl, 4-fluoro-pyridin-2-yl, pyrimidin-2-yl, 5-fluoro-pyrimidin-2-yl, 5-methoxy-pyrimidin-2-yl, 4-methoxy-pyrimidin-2-yl, 6-methoxy-pyrimidin-4-yl, 6-dimethylamino-pyrimidin-4-yl, pyrazin-2-yl, 6-methoxy-pyrazin-2-yl, 6-methoxy-pyridazin-3-yl, 3H-imidazol-4-yl, 3H-[1,2,3]triazol-4-yl, oxazol-2-yl, and 4,5-dimethyl-oxazol-2-yl. For avoidance of doubt, certain groups having tautomeric forms which may be considered predominantly aromatic (such as for example 3-hydroxy-isoxazolyl or 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazolyl groups) are defined herein as heteroaryl groups HET, even though their corresponding tautomeric form (3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-2H-isoxazolyl, respectively, 2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-3H-[1,3,4]oxadiazolyl) could also be considered as a non-aromatic group. Likewise, certain groups having tautomeric forms which may be considered predominantly non-aromatic (such as 5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl or 5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl) as defined for the substituent HET¹, are defined herein as not being part of substituted heteroaryl groups as defined for HET, even though their corresponding tautomeric form (5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazolyl, respectively, 5-mercapto-[1,2,4]oxadiazolyl), could also be considered as an heteroaryl group.

It is understood that the corresponding tautomer is encompassed in the respective scope as defined.

The term “cyano” refers to a group —CN.

The term “amino” refers to a group —NH₂.

The term “oxo” refers to a group ═O which is preferably attached to a chain or ring carbon or sulfur atom as for example in a carbonyl group —(CO)—, or a sulfonyl group —(SO₂)—.

Examples of “—X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2)” groups as used for substituents of Ar¹ being phenyl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl are amino, methylamino, ethylamino, propylamino, amino-methyl, methylamino-methyl, isobutylamino-methyl, cyclopropylamino-methyl, cyclobutylamino-methyl, (2-methoxyethyl)amino-methyl, (2,2,2-trifluoro-ethyl)-amino; or —NH—CO—H, —N(C₂H₅)—CO—H, —NH—CO—C₂H₅, —NH—CO—CH₂—CH₂—OH, —NH—CO—O—CH₃, —N(CH₃)—CO—O—CH₃; or pyrrolidin-1-yl, 2-oxo-pyrrolidin-1-yl, 1,1-dioxo-isothiazolidin-2-yl, morpholin-4-yl, azetidin-1-yl, or piperidin-1-yl; and 2-(dimethylamino)-ethoxy.

Examples of a group “—NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6)” as used for substituents of the group Ar¹ are ureido (—NH—CO—NH₂) and 3-ethylureido (—NH—CO—NH—C₂H₅).

Examples of a group “—(CH₂)_(r)—CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein r represents the integer 0 or 1” as used for substituents of the group Ar¹ are preferably groups wherein r represents the integer 0 and at least one of R^(N3) and R^(N4) represents hydrogen (or less preferred, methyl). Particular examples of such group —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) are —CO—NH₂, —CO—NH(CH₃), —CO—N(CH₃)₂, —CO—NH(C₂H₅), —CO—NH—O-methyl, —CO—NH—O-ethyl, —CO—NH—O-isopropyl, —CO—NH—C₂H₄—OH, —CO—NH—O—C₂H₄—OH, —CO—NH—C₂H₄—OCH₃, —CO—NH—C₂H₄—N(CH₃)₂, and —CO—NH—O-benzyl. Further examples are —CO—NH-isopropyl and —CO—NH—OH, as well as —CO—N(CH₃)₂.

Examples of a group “—X¹—CO—R¹” as used for substituents of the group Ar¹ are especially the following groups:

-   -   a) X¹ represents a direct bond; and R^(O1) represents —OH; (i.e.         —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents —COOH); or     -   b) X¹ represents a direct bond; and R^(O1) represents         —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially ethoxy, or methoxy); (i.e.         —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents —CO—(C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially         ethoxycarbonyl, methoxycarbonyl)); or     -   c) X¹ represents a direct bond; and R^(O1) represents         —NH—SO₂—R^(S3); wherein R^(S3) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl;         (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally         contains a ring oxygen atom; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene         wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen         atom; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl; phenyl; or —NH₂; (i.e. —X¹—CO—R^(O1)         represents —CO—NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents the above         mentioned groups; notably methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, cyclopropyl,         trifluoromethyl, amino; especially —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents         —CO—NH—SO₂—CH₃, —CO—NH—SO₂—C(CH₃)₂, —CO—NH—SO₂-cyclopropyl,         —CO—NH—SO₂-ethyl, or —CO—NH—SO₂—NH₂); or     -   d) X¹ represents (C₁₋₃)alkylene (especially —CH₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—),         —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —O—CH₂—*, —O—CH(CH₃)—*,         —O—C(CH₃)₂—*, O—CH₂—CH₂—*), —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially         —NH—CH₂—*, —NH—CH(CH₃)—*), —S—CH₂—*, —CF₂—, —CH═CH—, or —CH═CH—         [in a sub-embodiment X¹ represents especially —O—CH₂—*,         —NH—CH₂—*, —S—CH₂—*, or (C₁₋₃)alkylene]; wherein the asterisks         indicate the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and         R^(O1) represents —OH (i.e. —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents —X¹—COOH         wherein X¹ represents the above mentioned groups; especially         —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents —O—CH₂—COOH or —NH—CH₂—COOH; as well as         —CH₂—COOH, —CH₂—CH₂—COOH, —CH═CH—COOH, —CH═CH—COOH,         —O—CH₂—CH₂—COOH, —O—CH(CH₃)—COOH, or —NH—CH(CH₃)—COOH); or     -   e) —X¹ represents —NH—CO—* or —CO—; wherein the asterisk         indicates the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and         R^(O1) represents —OH (i.e. —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents —X¹—COOH         wherein X¹ represents the above mentioned groups; especially         —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents —NH—CO—COOH, —CO—COOH); or     -   f) X¹ represents (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; and R^(O1) represents —OH;         (i.e. —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl which is         mono-substituted with COOH; especially —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents         1-carboxy-cyclopropan-1-yl or 1-carboxy-cyclopentan-1-yl); or     -   g) X¹ represents a direct bond; and R^(O1) represents         —O—CH₂—CO—R^(O4), wherein R^(O4) represents hydroxy, or         (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, or —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂; especially —X¹—CO—R^(O1)         represents —CO—O—CH₂—COOH; or         wherein each of the groups a), b), c), d), e), f), and g) forms         a particular sub-embodiment.

Compounds of Formulae (I), (II), or (Ill) containing a group “—X¹—CO—R^(O1)” wherein X¹ represents —CH═CH— may be in E- or Z-configuration. Preferably, such groups are in E-configuration.

Whenever a group Ar¹ is substituted with a substituent comprising a carboxylic acid group —COOH (such as in the substituents —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR² wherein R^(O2) represents hydrogen; —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O3) wherein R^(O3) represents hydrogen; or in the substituents —X¹—CO—R^(O1) wherein R^(O1) represents —OH, especially in the —X¹—CO—R^(O1) groups a), d), e) and f) above) such carboxylic acid group may be present in form of a prodrug group. Such prodrugs are encompassed in the scope of the present invention. In certain instances, compounds comprising such carboxylic acid prodrug groups may as such exhibit biological activity on the EP2 and/or EP4 receptor, whereas in other instances, such compounds comprising such carboxylic acid prodrug groups require (e.g. enzymatic) cleavage of the prodrug to exhibit biological activity on the EP2 and/or EP4 receptor. Prodrugs of the carboxylic acid functional group are well known in the art (see for example J. Rautio (Ed.) Prodrugs and Targeted Delivery: Towards Better ADME Properties, Volume 47, Wiley 2010,ISBN: 978-3-527-32603-7; H. Maag in Stella, V., Borchardt, R., Hageman, M., Oliyai, R., Maag, H., Tilley, J. (Eds.) Prodrugs: Challenges and Rewards, Springer 2007, ISBN 978-0-387-49785-3).

Particular examples of prodrugs, for example suitable for —X¹—COOH groups are:

-   -   ester groups —X¹—CO—O—P¹ wherein P¹ is for example (C₁₋₄)alkyl;         (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally         contains a ring oxygen atom; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkyl         wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen         atom; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl; hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl; or         (C₁₋₄)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl (especially P1 is (C₁₋₄)alkyl, in         particular methyl or ethyl);     -   groups —X¹—CO—NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents         (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl         optionally contains a ring oxygen atom;         (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl         optionally contains a ring oxygen atom; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, —NH₂;         (especially R^(S3) is (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl; in         particular methyl);     -   groups —X¹—CO—R^(O1) wherein R^(O1) represents —O—CH₂—CO—R^(O4),         wherein R^(O4) represents hydroxy, or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, or         —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂ (especially —CO—O—CH₂—COOH,         —CO—O—CH₂—CO—N(CH₃)₂);     -   groups —X¹—CO—R^(O1) wherein R^(O1) represents         —O—CH₂—O—CO—R^(O5), wherein R^(O5) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl or         (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO—O-ethyl,         —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO-propyl);     -   groups —X¹—CO—R^(O1) wherein R^(O1) represents         —O—CH₂—CH₂—N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂ (especially —CO—O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂);         and     -   groups —X¹—CO—R^(O1) wherein R^(O1) represents         5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyloxy-.

Examples of “hydroxy-(C₁₋₄)alkyl” groups as used for substituents of the group Ar¹ are hydroxymethyl and 1-hydroxy-ethyl.

An example of “dihydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl” groups as used for substituents of the group Ar¹ is 1,2-dihydroxyethyl.

An example of “hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy” groups as used for substituents of the group Ar¹ is 2-hydroxy-ethoxy.

An example of “(C₁₋₄)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy” groups as used for substituents of the group Ar¹ is 2-methoxy-ethoxy.

Examples of a group “—SO₂—R^(S1)” as used for substituents of the group Ar¹ are —SO₂—CH₃, —SO₂—NH₂, —SO₂—NH—CH₃.

Examples of a group “S—R^(S2)” as used for substituents of the group Ar¹ are methylsulfanyl, ethylsulfanyl, n-propylsulfanyl, isopropylsulfanyl, isobutylsulfanyl), cyclobutylsulfanyl, and (oxetan-3-yl)-sulfanyl.

An example of a “(C₁₋₄)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl” group is 2-methoxyethyl.

An example of a “hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy” group is 2-hydroxy-ethoxy.

An example of a “hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl” group is 2-hydroxy-ethyl.

An example of a “—CO—(C₁₋₄)alkoxy” group as used for substituents of the group Ar¹ is ethoxycarbonyl. Such groups may also be useful as prodrugs of the respective —COOH substituent.

Whenever the word “between” is used to describe a numerical range, it is to be understood that the end points of the indicated range are explicitly included in the range. For example: if a temperature range is described to be between 40° C. and 80° C., this means that the end points 40° C. and 80° C. are included in the range; or if a variable is defined as being an integer between 1 and 4, this means that the variable is the integer 1, 2, 3, or 4.

Unless used regarding temperatures, the term “about” placed before a numerical value “X” refers in the current application to an interval extending from X minus 10% of X to X plus 10% of X, and preferably to an interval extending from X minus 5% of X to X plus 5% of X. In the particular case of temperatures, the term “about” placed before a temperature “Y” refers in the current application to an interval extending from the temperature Y minus 10° C. to Y plus 10° C., and preferably to an interval extending from Y minus 5° C. to Y plus 5° C. Besides, the term “room temperature” as used herein refers to a temperature of about 25° C.

Further embodiments of the invention are presented hereinafter:

2) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in to embodiment 1), for use according to embodiment 1), wherein R^(4a) and R^(4b) both represent hydrogen.

3) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in to embodiments 1) or 2), for use according to embodiment 1), wherein R^(5a) and R^(5b) both represent hydrogen. Particular compounds of formula (I) are compounds wherein R^(4a) and R^(4b) both represent hydrogen; and R^(5a) and R^(5b) both represent hydrogen. 4) Another embodiment relates to compounds of formula (I) as defined in embodiment 1), for use according to embodiment 1), which compounds are also compounds of the formula (II)

wherein ring (A) in the fragment:

represents an aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring or a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring, which ring (A) is fused to the phenyl group, wherein independently said ring (A) optionally contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur (notably such fused group is benzofuranyl, benzothiophenyl, benzothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, indolyl, indazolyl, naphthyl, quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophenyl, benzo[1,3]dioxolyl, 1,3-dihydro-isobenzofuranyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl, indanyl, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalenyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[1,4]dioxinyl, chromanyl, 3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[1,4]oxazinyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolinyl); wherein said fragment is optionally substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, three, or four optional substituents (i.e. said fragment is unsubstituted, or substituted with one, two, three, or four R¹), wherein said substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₂₋₃)alkenyl (especially vinyl), (C₂₋₃)alkynyl (especially ethynyl), (C₁₋₃)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, isopropoxy), halogen (especially fluoro, or chloro), —S—(C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methylsulfanyl), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially trifluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy), cyano, oxo, or amino; R³ represents hydrogen, or methyl (especially hydrogen); and Ar¹ represents

-   -   a phenyl group of the structure (Ar-I):

-   -   wherein         -   R^(p) represents             -   (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom, wherein                 said (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom is                 unsubstituted or mono-substituted with hydroxy                 (especially 3-hydroxy-oxetan-3-yl);             -   hydroxy;             -   —X¹—CO—R^(O1), wherein                 -   X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene                     (especially —CH₂—, —CH(CH₃)—, —C(CH₃)₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—),                     —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —O—CH₂—*,                     —O—CH(CH₃)—*, —O—C(CH₃)₂—*, —O—CH₂—CH₂—*),                     —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —NH—CH₂—*,                     —NH—CH(CH₃)—*), —S—CH₂—*, —CF₂—, —CH═CH—, —CH═CH—,                     —NH—CO—*, —CO—, or (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the                     asterisks indicate the bond that is linked to the                     —CO—R^(O1) group; and                 -   R^(O1) represents                 -   —OH;                 -   —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially ethoxy, methoxy);                 -   —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents                     (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂;                 -   —O—CH₂—CO—R^(O4), wherein R^(O4) represents hydroxy,                     or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, or —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂;                 -   —O—CH₂—O—CO—R^(O5), wherein R^(O5) represents                     (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy;                 -   —O—CH₂—CH₂—N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂ (especially                     —O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂); or                 -   (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyloxy-;             -   [wherein in particular such group —X¹—CO—R^(O1)                 represents —COOH, —CO—O—CH₃, —CO—O—C₂H₅, —O—CH₂—COOH,                 —O—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —O—C(CH₃)₂—COOH, —O—CH₂—CH₂—COOH,                 —NH—CH₂—COOH, —NH—CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —NH—CH(CH₃)—COOH,                 —CO—NH—SO₂—CH₃, —CO—NH—SO₂—C(CH₃)₂,                 —CO—NH—SO₂-cyclopropyl, —CO—NH—SO₂—C₂H₅, —CO—NH—SO₂—NH₂,                 —CO—O—CH₂—COOH, —CO—O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂,                 —CO—O—CH₂—CO—N(CH₃)₂, —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO—O—C₂H₅,                 —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO-propyl,                 (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyl-O—CO—,                 —CH₂—COOH, —CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —CH₂—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CH₂—CH₂—COOH,                 —CH═CH—COOH, —CH═CH—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CF₂—COOH, —NH—CO—COOH,                 —CO—COOH, 1-carboxy-cyclopropan-1-yl];

-   -   -   2-hydroxy-3,4-dioxo-cyclobut-1-enyl;         -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy);         -   —(CH₂)_(r)—CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein r represents the integer             0 or 1; and wherein R^(N3) and R^(N4) independently             represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₄)alkyl, hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl,             (C₁₋₃)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, or hydroxy (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N3) and R^(N4) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4)             are —CO—NH₂, —CO—NH(CH₃), —CO—NH(C₂H₅), —CH₂—CO—NH₂,             —CO—NH—C₂H₄—OH, —CO—NH—C₂H₄—OCH₃, or —CO—N(CH₃)₂,             —CO—NH-isopropyl, or —CO—NH—OH);         -   —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) wherein R^(N5) and R^(N6) independently             represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N5) and R^(N6) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group             —NH—CO—NR^(N)R^(N6) are —NH—CO—NH₂, —NH—CO—NH—C₂H₅);         -   —(CH₂)_(q)-HET¹, wherein q represents the integer 0, 1 or 2             (especially q is 0, i.e. HET¹ is linked to Ar¹ by a direct             bond); and wherein HET¹ represents             5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl),             3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 3-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl), or             5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 5-mercapto-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl);         -   —(CH₂)_(p)-HET, wherein p represents the integer 0 or 1             (especially p is 0, i.e. HET is linked to Ar¹ by a direct             bond); and wherein HET represents a 5-membered heteroaryl             (especially oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, thiazolyl,             isothiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl,             triazolyl, or tetrazolyl), wherein said 5-membered             heteroaryl is unsubstituted, or mono- or di-substituted,             wherein the substituents are independently selected from             (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially             methoxy), —COOH, hydroxy, hydroxy-(C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially             hydroxymethyl), (C₃₋₅)cycloalkyl optionally containing one             ring oxygen atom (especially cyclopropyl, oxetan-3-yl), or             —NR^(N9)R^(N10) wherein R^(N9) and R^(N10) independently             represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), or             hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl (especially 2-hydroxy-ethyl);             (especially such group —(CH₂)_(p)-HET is 1H-tetrazol-5-yl,             3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl,             3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-amino-oxazol-5-yl,             5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methoxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-amino-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-[(2-hydroxy-ethyl)]-amino)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-hydroxymethyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-(oxetan-3-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 1H-imidazol-4-yl,             5-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 2,5-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl);

    -   R^(m1) represents         -   hydrogen;         -   (C₁₋₆)alkyl (especially methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl,             n-butyl, isobutyl);         -   (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy,             isopropoxy, n-butoxy, isobutoxy);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially difluoromethoxy,             trifluoromethoxy, 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy);         -   halogen (especially fluoro or chloro);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl (especially cyclopropyl);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy (especially cyclopropyl-oxy,             cyclobutyl-oxy, cyclopentyl-oxy);         -   hydroxy;         -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy);         -   —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2), wherein X² represents a direct bond; or             X² represents —O—CH₂—CH₂₋*, wherein the asterisk indicates             the bond that is linked to the —NR^(N1)R^(N2) group; and             wherein R^(N1) and R^(N2) independently represent hydrogen,             (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl), or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl             (especially cyclopropyl); (especially such group             —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2) represents amino, methylamino, ethylamino,             propylamino; or 2-(dimethylamino)-ethoxy);         -   —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially             methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, isobutyl),             (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom             (especially cyclobutyl, oxetan-3-yl);         -   wherein in a sub-embodiment, R^(m1) especially is different             from hydrogen;

    -   R^(m2) represents hydrogen, methyl, fluoro, or chloro; and

    -   R^(o1) represents hydrogen; or, in case R^(m2) represents         hydrogen, R^(o1) represents hydrogen or fluoro;

    -   or Ar¹ represents a 5-membered heteroaryl group of the structure         (Ar-III):

-   -   wherein     -   Y represents CR⁸ wherein R⁸ represents especially hydrogen, or         halogen (notably fluoro, chloro); or Y represents N;     -   R⁷ represents         -   (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom, wherein said             (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom is             unsubstituted or mono-substituted with hydroxy (especially             3-hydroxy-oxetan-3-yl);         -   —X¹—CO—R¹, wherein             -   X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene (especially                 —CH₂—, —CH(CH₃)—, —C(CH₃)₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—),                 —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —O—CH₂—*, —O—CH(CH₃)—*,                 —O—C(CH₃)₂—*, —O—CH₂—CH₂—*), —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*                 (especially —NH—CH₂—*, —NH—CH(CH₃)—*), —S—CH₂—*, —CF₂—,                 —CH═CH—, —CH≡CH—, —NH—CO—*, —CO—, or                 (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate the                 bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and             -   R^(O1) represents                 -   —OH;                 -   —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially ethoxy, methoxy);                 -   —NH—SO₂—R³ wherein R^(S3) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl,                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl                     optionally contains a ring oxygen atom,                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂;                 -   —O—CH₂—CO—R^(O4), wherein R^(O4) represents hydroxy,                     or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, or —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂;                 -   —O—CH₂—O—CO—R^(O5), wherein R^(O5) represents                     (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy;                 -   —O—CH₂—CH₂—N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂ (especially                     —O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂); or                 -   (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyloxy-;         -   [wherein in particular such group —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents             —COOH, —CO—O—CH₃, —CO—O—C₂H₅, —O—CH₂—COOH, —O—CH(CH₃)—COOH,             —O—C(CH₃)₂—COOH, —O—CH₂—CH₂—COOH, —NH—CH₂—COOH,             —NH—CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —NH—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —CO—NH—SO₂—CH₃,             —CO—NH—SO₂—C(CH₃)₂, —CO—NH—SO₂-cyclopropyl, —CO—NH—SO₂—C₂H₅,             —CO—NH—SO₂—NH₂, —CO—O—CH₂—COOH, —CO—O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂,             —CO—O—CH₂—CO—N(CH₃)₂, —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO—O—C₂H₅,             —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO-propyl,             (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyl-O—CO—, —CH₂—COOH,             —CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —CH₂—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CH₂—CH₂—COOH, —CH═CH—COOH,             —CH═CH—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CF₂—COOH, —NH—CO—COOH, —CO—COOH,             1-carboxy-cyclopropan-1-yl];

-   -   -   2-hydroxy-3,4-dioxo-cyclobut-1-enyl;         -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy);         -   —(CH₂)_(r)—CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein r represents the integer             0 or 1; and wherein R^(N3) and R^(N4) independently             represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₄)alkyl, hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl,             (C₁₋₃)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, or hydroxy (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N3) and R^(N4) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4)             are —CO—NH₂, —CO—NH(CH₃), —CO—NH(C₂H₅), —CH₂—CO—NH₂,             —CO—NH—C₂H₄—OH, —CO—NH—C₂H₄—OCH₃, or —CO—N(CH₃)₂,             —CO—NH-isopropyl, or —CO—NH—OH);         -   —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) wherein R^(N5) and R^(N6) independently             represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N5) and R^(N6) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group             —NH—CO—NR^(N)R^(N6) are —NH—CO—NH₂, —NH—CO—NH—C₂H₅);         -   —(CH₂)_(q)-HET¹, wherein q represents the integer 0, 1 or 2             (especially q is 0, i.e. HET¹ is linked to Ar by a direct             bond); and wherein HET¹ represents             5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl),             3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 3-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl), or             5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 5-mercapto-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl);         -   —(CH₂)_(p)-HET, wherein p represents the integer 0 or 1             (especially p is 0, i.e. HET is linked to Ar¹ by a direct             bond); and wherein HET represents a 5-membered heteroaryl             (especially oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, thiazolyl,             isothiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl,             triazolyl, or tetrazolyl), wherein said 5-membered             heteroaryl is unsubstituted, or mono- or di-substituted,             wherein the substituents are independently selected from             (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially             methoxy), —COOH, hydroxy, hydroxy-(C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially             hydroxymethyl), (C₃₋₅)cycloalkyl optionally containing one             ring oxygen atom (especially cyclopropyl, oxetan-3-yl), or             —NR^(N9)R^(N10) wherein R^(N9) and R^(N10) independently             represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), or             hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl (especially 2-hydroxy-ethyl);             (especially such group —(CH₂)_(p)-HET is 1H-tetrazol-5-yl,             3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl,             3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-amino-oxazol-5-yl,             5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methoxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-amino-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-[(2-hydroxy-ethyl)]-amino)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-hydroxymethyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-(oxetan-3-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 1H-imidazol-4-yl,             5-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 2,5-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl);

    -   R⁶ represents         -   (C₁₋₆)alkyl (especially methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl,             n-butyl, isobutyl);         -   (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy,             isopropoxy, n-butoxy);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially difluoromethoxy,             trifluoromethoxy, 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy);         -   halogen (especially fluoro or chloro);         -   hydroxy;         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl (especially cyclopropyl);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy (especially cyclopropyl-oxy,             cyclobutyl-oxy, cyclopentyl-oxy);         -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy);         -   —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2), wherein X² represents a direct bond; or             X² represents —O—CH₂—CH₂₋*, wherein the asterisk indicates             the bond that is linked to the —NR^(N1)R^(N2) group; and             wherein R^(N1) and R^(N2) independently represent hydrogen,             (C₁₋₄)alkyl, or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl; (especially such group             —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2) represents amino, methylamino, ethylamino,             propylamino; or 2-(dimethylamino)-ethoxy);         -   —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially             methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, isobutyl),             (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom             (especially cyclobutyl, oxetan-3-yl);

    -   or Ar¹ represents 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl (notably         9- or 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl; especially indazolyl,         benzoimidazolyl, indolyl, benzofuranyl, benzooxazolyl,         quinoxalinyl, isoquinolinyl, or quinolinyl); wherein said 8- to         10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl independently is         mono-substituted with —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR² wherein R^(O2)         represents hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl) (wherein         especially such group —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O2) is —COOH);         (especially such 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl is         3-carboxy-1H-indol-6-yl, 4-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl,         5-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 6-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl,         7-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 5-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl,         6-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl), 6-carboxy-benzofuran-2-yl,         3-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl, 2-carboxy-benzofuran-5-yl, or         2-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl);

    -   or Ar¹ represents a group of the structure (Ar-III):

-   -   which is selected from 2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-6-yl,         3-methyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-5-yl,         1-methyl-3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indazol-6-yl,         2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl,         1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl,         1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-6-yl,         1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-7-yl, and         1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-7-yl.         5) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in         embodiment 4), for use according to embodiment 1), wherein Ar¹         represents     -   a phenyl group of the structure (Ar-I):

-   -   wherein         -   R^(p) represents             -   —X¹—CO—R¹, wherein                 -   X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene                     (especially —CH₂—, —CH(CH₃)—, —C(CH₃)₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—),                     —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —O—CH₂—*,                     —O—CH(CH₃)—*, —O—C(CH₃)₂—*, —O—CH₂—CH₂—*),                     —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —NH—CH₂—*,                     —NH—CH(CH₃)—*), —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, or                     (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate                     the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and                 -   R^(O1) represents                 -   —OH;                 -   —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially ethoxy, methoxy);                 -   —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents                     (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂;                 -   —O—CH₂—CO—R^(O4), wherein R^(O4) represents hydroxy,                     or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, or —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂;                 -   —O—CH₂—O—CO—R⁵, wherein R^(O5) represents                     (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy;                 -   —O—CH₂—CH₂—N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂ (especially                     —O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂); or                 -   (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyloxy-;             -   [wherein in particular such group —X¹—CO—R^(O1)                 represents —COOH, —CO—O—CH₃, —CO—O—C₂H₅, —O—CH₂—COOH,                 —O—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —O—C(CH₃)₂—COOH, —O—CH₂—CH₂—COOH,                 —NH—CH₂—COOH, —NH—CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —NH—CH(CH₃)—COOH,                 —CO—NH—SO₂—CH₃, —CO—NH—SO₂—C(CH₃)₂,                 —CO—NH—SO₂-cyclopropyl, —CO—NH—SO₂—C₂H₅, —CO—NH—SO₂—NH₂,                 —CO—O—CH₂—COOH, —CO—O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂,                 —CO—O—CH₂—CO—N(CH₃)₂, —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO—O—C₂H₅,                 —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO-propyl,                 (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyl-O—CO—,                 —CH₂—COOH, —CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —CH₂—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CH₂—CH₂—COOH,                 —CH═CH—COOH, —NH—CO—COOH, 1-carboxy-cyclopropan-1-yl];

-   -   -   —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein R^(N3) and R^(N4) independently             represent hydrogen, or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N3) and R^(N4) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4)             are —CO—NH₂, —CO—NH(CH₃), or —CO—NH(C₂H₅));         -   —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) wherein R^(N5) and R^(N6) independently             represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N5) and R^(N6) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group             —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) are —NH—CO—NH₂, —NH—CO—NH—C₂H₅);         -   —(CH₂)_(q)-HET¹, wherein q represents the integer 0, 1 or 2             (especially q is 0, i.e. HET¹ is linked to Ar¹ by a direct             bond); and wherein HET¹ represents             5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl), or             3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 3-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl);         -   HET, wherein HET represents a 5-membered heteroaryl             (especially oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, thiazolyl,             isothiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl,             triazolyl, or tetrazolyl), wherein said 5-membered             heteroaryl is unsubstituted, or mono- or di-substituted,             wherein the substituents are independently selected from             (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially             methoxy), —COOH, hydroxy, hydroxy-(C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially             hydroxymethyl), (C₃₋₅)cycloalkyl optionally containing one             ring oxygen atom (especially cyclopropyl, oxetan-3-yl), or             —NR^(N9)R^(N10) wherein R^(N9) and R^(N10) independently             represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), or             hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl (especially 2-hydroxy-ethyl);             (especially such group HET is 1H-tetrazol-5-yl,             3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl,             3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-amino-oxazol-5-yl,             5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methoxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-amino-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-[(2-hydroxy-ethyl)]-amino)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-hydroxymethyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-(oxetan-3-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 1H-imidazol-4-yl,             5-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 2,5-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl);

    -   R^(m1) represents         -   hydrogen;         -   (C₁₋₆)alkyl (especially methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl,             n-butyl, isobutyl);         -   (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy,             isopropoxy, n-butoxy, isobutoxy);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially difluoromethoxy,             trifluoromethoxy, 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy);         -   halogen (especially fluoro or chloro);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl (especially cyclopropyl);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy (especially cyclopropyl-oxy,             cyclobutyl-oxy, cyclopentyl-oxy);         -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy);         -   —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2), wherein X² represents a direct bond; or             X² represents —O—CH₂—CH₂₋*, wherein the asterisk indicates             the bond that is linked to the —NR^(N1)R^(N2) group; and             wherein R^(N1) and R^(N2) independently represent hydrogen,             (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl), or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl             (especially cyclopropyl); (especially such group             —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2) represents amino, methylamino, ethylamino,             propylamino; or 2-(dimethylamino)-ethoxy);         -   —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially             methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, isobutyl),             (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom             (especially cyclobutyl, oxetan-3-yl);

    -   wherein in a sub-embodiment, R^(m1) especially is different from         hydrogen;

    -   R^(m2) represents hydrogen, methyl, fluoro, or chloro; and

    -   R^(o1) represents hydrogen; or, in case R^(m2) represents         hydrogen, R^(o1) represents hydrogen or fluoro;

    -   or Ar¹ represents a 5-membered heteroaryl group of the structure         (Ar-III):

-   -   wherein         -   Y represents CR⁸ wherein R⁸ represents especially hydrogen,             or halogen (notably fluoro, chloro); or Y represents N;         -   R⁷ represents             -   —X¹—CO—R^(O1), wherein                 -   X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene                     (especially —CH₂—, —CH(CH₃)—, —C(CH₃)₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—),                     —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —O—CH₂—*,                     —O—CH(CH₃)—*, —O—C(CH₃)₂—*, —O—CH₂—CH₂—*),                     —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —NH—CH₂—*,                     —NH—CH(CH₃)—*), —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, or                     (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate                     the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and                 -   R^(O1) represents                 -   —OH;                 -   —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially ethoxy, methoxy);                 -   —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents                     (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂;                 -   —O—CH₂—CO—R^(O4), wherein R^(O4) represents hydroxy,                     or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, or —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂;                 -   —O—CH₂—O—CO—R⁵, wherein R^(O5) represents                     (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy;                 -   —O—CH₂—CH₂—N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂ (especially                     —O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂); or                 -   (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyloxy-;             -   [wherein in particular such group —X¹—CO—R^(O1)                 represents —COOH, —CO—O—CH₃, —CO—O—C₂H₅, —O—CH₂—COOH,                 —O—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —O—C(CH₃)₂—COOH, —O—CH₂—CH₂—COOH,                 —NH—CH₂—COOH, —NH—CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —NH—CH(CH₃)—COOH,                 —CO—NH—SO₂—CH₃, —CO—NH—SO₂—C(CH₃)₂,                 —CO—NH—SO₂-cyclopropyl, —CO—NH—SO₂—C₂H₅, —CO—NH—SO₂—NH₂,                 —CO—O—CH₂—COOH, —CO—O—CH₂—CH₂—N(CH₃)₂,                 —CO—O—CH₂—CO—N(CH₃)₂, —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO—O—C₂H₅,                 —CO—O—CH₂—O—CO-propyl,                 (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyl-O—CO—,                 —CH₂—COOH, —CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —CH₂—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CH₂—CH₂—COOH,                 —CH═CH—COOH, —NH—CO—COOH, 1-carboxy-cyclopropan-1-yl];

-   -   -   —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein R^(N3) and R^(N4) independently             represent hydrogen, or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N3) and R^(N4) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4)             are —CO—NH₂, —CO—NH(CH₃), —CO—NH(C₂H₅));         -   —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) wherein R^(N5) and R^(N6) independently             represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N5) and R^(N6) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group             —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) are —NH—CO—NH₂, —NH—CO—NH—C₂H₅);         -   —(CH₂)_(q)-HET¹, wherein q represents the integer 0, 1 or 2             (especially q is 0, i.e. HET¹ is linked to Ar by a direct             bond); and wherein HET¹ represents             5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl), or             3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 3-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl);         -   HET, wherein HET represents a 5-membered heteroaryl             (especially oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, thiazolyl,             isothiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl,             triazolyl, or tetrazolyl), wherein said 5-membered             heteroaryl is unsubstituted, or mono- or di-substituted,             wherein the substituents are independently selected from             (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially             methoxy), —COOH, hydroxy, hydroxy-(C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially             hydroxymethyl), (C₃₋₅)cycloalkyl optionally containing one             ring oxygen atom (especially cyclopropyl, oxetan-3-yl), or             —NR^(N9)R^(N10) wherein R^(N9) and R^(N10) independently             represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), or             hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl (especially 2-hydroxy-ethyl);             (especially such group HET is 1H-tetrazol-5-yl,             3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl,             3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-amino-oxazol-5-yl,             5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methoxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-amino-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-[(2-hydroxy-ethyl)]-amino)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-hydroxymethyl-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl,             5-(oxetan-3-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 1H-imidazol-4-yl,             5-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 2,5-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl);

    -   R⁶ represents         -   (C₁₋₆)alkyl (especially methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl,             n-butyl, isobutyl);         -   (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy,             isopropoxy, n-butoxy);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially difluoromethoxy,             trifluoromethoxy, 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy);         -   halogen (especially fluoro or chloro);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl (especially cyclopropyl);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy (especially cyclopropyl-oxy,             cyclobutyl-oxy, cyclopentyl-oxy);         -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy);         -   —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2), wherein X² represents a direct bond; or             X² represents —O—CH₂—CH₂—*, wherein the asterisk indicates             the bond that is linked to the —NR^(N1)R^(N2) group; and             wherein R^(N1) and R^(N2) independently represent hydrogen,             (C₁₋₄)alkyl, or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl; (especially such group             —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2) represents amino, methylamino, ethylamino,             propylamino; or 2-(dimethylamino)-ethoxy);         -   —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially             methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, isobutyl),             (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom             (especially cyclobutyl, oxetan-3-yl);

    -   or Ar¹ represents 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl (notably         9- or 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl; especially indazolyl,         benzoimidazolyl, indolyl, benzofuranyl, benzooxazolyl,         quinoxalinyl, isoquinolinyl, or quinolinyl); wherein said 8- to         10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl independently is         mono-substituted with —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR² wherein R^(O2)         represents hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl) (wherein         especially such group —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O2) is —COOH);         (especially such 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl is         3-carboxy-1H-indol-6-yl, 4-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl,         5-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 6-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl,         7-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 5-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl,         6-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl), 6-carboxy-benzofuran-2-yl,         3-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl, 2-carboxy-benzofuran-5-yl, or         2-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl);

    -   or Ar¹ represents a group of the structure (Ar-III):

-   -   which is selected from 2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-6-yl,         3-methyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-5-yl,         1-methyl-3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indazol-6-yl,         2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl,         1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl,         1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-6-yl,         1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-7-yl, and         1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-7-yl.         wherein in a sub-embodiment, Ar¹ especially is a phenyl group of         the structure (Ar-I) (wherein in particular R^(m1) especially is         different from hydrogen), or a 5-membered heteroaryl group of         the structure (Ar-III), as defined herein above.         6) Another embodiment relates to compounds defined in embodiment         4), for use according to embodiment 1), wherein Ar¹ represents

-   (i) a phenyl group of the structure (Ar-I):

-   -   wherein         -   R^(p) represents             -   (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom, wherein                 said (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom is                 unsubstituted or mono-substituted with hydroxy                 (especially 3-hydroxy-oxetan-3-yl);             -   hydroxy;             -   —X¹—CO—R¹, wherein                 -   X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene                     (especially —CH₂—, —CH(CH₃)—, —C(CH₃)₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—),                     —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —O—CH₂—*,                     —O—CH(CH₃)—*, —O—C(CH₃)₂—*, —O—CH₂—CH₂—*),                     —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —NH—CH₂—*,                     —NH—CH(CH₃)—*), —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, or                     (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate                     the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and                 -   R^(O1) represents                 -   —OH;                 -   —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially ethoxy, methoxy);                 -   —NH—SO₂—R³ wherein R^(S3) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl,                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl                     optionally contains a ring oxygen atom,                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, or —NH₂;             -   [wherein in particular such group —X¹—CO—R^(O1)                 represents —COOH, —CO—O—CH₃, —CO—O—C₂H₅, —O—CH₂—COOH,                 —O—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —O—C(CH₃)₂—COOH, —O—CH₂—CH₂—COOH,                 —NH—CH₂—COOH, —CO—NH—SO₂—CH₃, —CO—NH—SO₂—C(CH₃)₂,                 —CO—NH—SO₂-cyclopropyl, —CO—NH—SO₂—C₂H₅, —CO—NH—SO₂—NH₂,                 —CH₂—COOH, —CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, CH₂—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CH(CH₃)—COOH,                 —CH₂—CH₂—COOH, —CH═CH—COOH, —NH—CO—COOH,                 —NH—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —NH—CH₂—CO—O—CH₃,                 1-carboxy-cyclopropan-1-yl];

-   -   -   2-hydroxy-3,4-dioxo-cyclobut-1-enyl;         -   —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein R^(N3) and R^(N4) independently             represent hydrogen, or (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N3) and R^(N4) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4)             are —CO—NH₂, —CO—NH(CH₃), or —CO—NH(C₂H₅));         -   —NH—CO—NR^(N)R^(N6) wherein R^(N5) and R^(N6) independently             represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N5) and R^(N6) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group             —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) are —NH—CO—NH₂, —NH—CO—NH—C₂H₅);         -   HET¹, wherein HET¹ represents             5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl), or             3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 3-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl);         -   HET, wherein HET represents a 5-membered heteroaryl selected             from oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, thiazolyl,             isothiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl,             triazolyl, and tetrazolyl, wherein said 5-membered             heteroaryl is unsubstituted, or mono- or di-substituted,             wherein the substituents are independently selected from             (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially             methoxy), —COOH, hydroxy, hydroxy-(C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially             hydroxymethyl), (C₃₋₅)cycloalkyl optionally containing one             ring oxygen atom (especially cyclopropyl, oxetan-3-yl), or             —NR^(N9)R^(N10) wherein R^(N9) and R^(N10) independently             represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), or             hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl (especially 2-hydroxy-ethyl);             [especially such group HET is 1H-tetrazol-5-yl,             3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl,             3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-amino-oxazol-5-yl,             5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl, 1H-imidazol-4-yl,             5-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 2,5-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl; in             particular HET is 1H-tetrazol-5-yl, 3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl,             2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl, or             5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl];

    -   R^(m1) represents         -   hydrogen;         -   (C₁₋₆)alkyl (especially methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl,             n-butyl, isobutyl);         -   (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy,             isopropoxy, n-butoxy, isobutoxy);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially difluoromethoxy,             trifluoromethoxy, 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy);         -   halogen (especially fluoro or chloro);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl (especially cyclopropyl);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy (especially cyclopropyl-oxy,             cyclobutyl-oxy, cyclopentyl-oxy);         -   hydroxy;         -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy);         -   —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially             methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, isobutyl),             (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom             (especially cyclobutyl, oxetan-3-yl);         -   wherein in a sub-embodiment, R^(m1) especially is different             from hydrogen;

    -   R^(m2) represents hydrogen, methyl, fluoro, or chloro; and

    -   R^(o1) represents hydrogen;

-   (ii) or Ar¹ represents a 5-membered heteroaryl group of the     structure (Ar-III):

-   -   wherein         -   Y represents CH or N;         -   R⁷ represents             -   —X¹—CO—R¹, wherein                 -   X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene                     (especially —CH₂—, —CH(CH₃)—, —C(CH₃)₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—),                     —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —O—CH₂—*,                     —O—CH(CH₃)—*, —O—C(CH₃)₂—*, —O—CH₂—CH₂—*),                     —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —NH—CH₂—*,                     —NH—CH(CH₃)—*), —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, or                     (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate                     the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and                 -   R^(O1) represents                 -   —OH;                 -   —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially ethoxy, methoxy);                 -   —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents                     (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂;             -   [wherein in particular such group —X¹—CO—R^(O1)                 represents —COOH, —CO—O—CH₃, —CO—O—C₂H₅, —O—CH₂—COOH,                 —O—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —O—C(CH₃)₂—COOH, —O—CH₂—CH₂—COOH,                 —NH—CH₂—COOH, —CO—NH—SO₂—CH₃, —CO—NH—SO₂—C(CH₃)₂,                 —CO—NH—SO₂-cyclopropyl, —CO—NH—SO₂—C₂H₅, —CO—NH—SO₂—NH₂,                 —CH₂—COOH, —CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, CH₂—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CH(CH₃)—COOH,                 —CH₂—CH₂—COOH, —CH═CH—COOH, —NH—CO—COOH,                 —NH—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —NH—CH₂—CO—O—CH₃,                 1-carboxy-cyclopropan-1-yl];

-   -   -   2-hydroxy-3,4-dioxo-cyclobut-1-enyl;         -   —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein R^(N3) and R^(N4) independently             represent hydrogen, or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N3) and R^(N4) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group —CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4)             are —CO—NH₂, —CO—NH(CH₃), or —CO—NH(C₂H₅);         -   —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) wherein R^(N5) and R^(N6) independently             represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl (wherein preferably at             least one of R^(N5) and R^(N6) represents hydrogen; and             wherein particular examples of such group             —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) are —NH—CO—NH₂, —NH—CO—NH—C₂H₅);         -   —(CH₂)_(q)-HET¹, wherein q represents the integer 0, 1 or 2             (especially q is 0, i.e. HET¹ is linked to Ar¹ by a direct             bond); and wherein HET¹ represents             5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl),             3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 3-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl);         -   —(CH₂)_(p)-HET, wherein p represents the integer 0 or 1             (especially p is 0, i.e. HET is linked to Ar¹ by a direct             bond); and wherein HET represents a 5-membered heteroaryl             selected from oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, thiazolyl,             isothiazolyl, thiadiazolyl, imidazolyl, pyrazolyl,             triazolyl, and tetrazolyl, wherein said 5-membered             heteroaryl is unsubstituted, or mono- or di-substituted,             wherein the substituents are independently selected from             (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially             methoxy), —COOH, hydroxy, hydroxy-(C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially             hydroxymethyl), (C₃₋₅)cycloalkyl optionally containing one             ring oxygen atom (especially cyclopropyl, oxetan-3-yl), or             —NR^(N9)R^(N10) wherein R^(N9) and R^(N10) independently             represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), or             hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl (especially 2-hydroxy-ethyl);             [especially such group HET is 1H-tetrazol-5-yl,             3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl,             3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-amino-oxazol-5-yl,             5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl, 1H-imidazol-4-yl,             5-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl, 2,5-dimethyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl; in             particular HET is 1H-tetrazol-5-yl, 3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl,             2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl, or             5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl];

    -   R⁶ represents         -   (C₁-)alkyl (especially methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl,             n-butyl, isobutyl);         -   (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy,             isopropoxy, n-butoxy);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially difluoromethoxy,             trifluoromethoxy, 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy);         -   halogen (especially fluoro or chloro);         -   hydroxy;         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl (especially cyclopropyl);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy (especially cyclopropyl-oxy,             cyclobutyl-oxy, cyclopentyl-oxy);         -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy);         -   —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially             methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, isobutyl),             (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom             (especially cyclobutyl, oxetan-3-yl);

-   (iii) or Ar¹ represents 3-carboxy-1H-indol-6-yl,     4-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 5-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl,     6-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl, 7-carboxy-1H-indol-2-yl,     5-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl,     6-(methoxycarbonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl), 6-carboxy-benzofuran-2-yl,     3-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl, 2-carboxy-benzofuran-5-yl, or     2-carboxy-benzofuran-6-yl;

-   (iv) or Ar¹ represents a group of the structure (Ar-III):

-   -   wherein ring (B) represents 2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-6-yl,         3-methyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-5-yl,         1-methyl-3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indazol-6-yl,         2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl,         1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl,         1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-6-yl,         1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-7-yl, or         1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-7-yl;         wherein in a sub-embodiment, Ar¹ especially is a phenyl group of         the structure (Ar-I) (wherein in particular R^(m1) especially is         different from hydrogen), or a 5-membered heteroaryl group of         the structure (Ar-II), as defined herein above.         7) Another embodiment relates to compounds defined in embodiment         4), for use according to embodiment 1), wherein Ar¹ represents a         group selected from:         A)

or, in addition, Ar¹ represents a group selected from: B)

wherein each of the groups A) and B) forms a particular sub-embodiment; wherein in a further sub-embodiment, Ar¹ especially is a phenyl group (in particular a di-substituted phenyl group), or a thiophenyl group, or a thiazolyl group, as defined in groups A) and/or B) herein above. 8) Another embodiment relates to compounds defined in embodiment 4), for use according to embodiment 1), wherein

-   (i) Ar¹ represents a phenyl group selected from:

-   (ii) or Ar¹ represents a thiophenyl group selected from:

-   (iii) or Ar¹ represents a thiazolyl group selected from:

-   (iv) or Ar¹ represents 9- or 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl     selected from

-   (v) or Ar¹ represents a group selected from:

wherein in a sub-embodiment, Ar¹ especially is a phenyl group (in particular a di-substituted phenyl group), or a thiophenyl group, or a thiazolyl group, as defined herein above. 9) Another embodiment relates to compounds defined in embodiment 4), for use according to embodiment 1), wherein

-   (i) Ar¹ represents a phenyl group selected from:     -   a)

-   -   b)

-   -   c)

-   -   d)

-   -   wherein in the above groups di-substituted phenyl groups are         preferred groups.

-   (ii) or Ar¹ represents a thiophenyl group selected from:     -   a)

-   -   b)

-   -   c)

-   -   d)

-   -   e)

-   (iii) or Ar¹ represents a thiazolyl group selected from:     -   a)

-   -   b)

-   (iv) or Ar¹ represents 9- or 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl     selected from     -   a)

-   -   b)

-   (v) or Ar¹ represents a group selected from:

wherein in a sub-embodiment, Ar¹ especially is a phenyl group (in particular a di-substituted phenyl group), or a thiophenyl group, or a thiazolyl group, as defined herein above. 10) A second embodiment relates to compounds as defined in any one of embodiments 1) to 9), for use according to embodiment 1), wherein R³ represents hydrogen. 11) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in any one of embodiments 1) to 9), for use according to embodiment 1), wherein R³ represents methyl. 12) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in any one of embodiments 1) to 9), wherein the characteristics defined for the fragment

according to embodiments 14), or 16) to 20) below apply mutatis mutandis. 13) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in any one of embodiments 1) to 9), wherein the characteristics defined for the substituent Ar¹ according to embodiments 14) or 15) below apply mutatis mutandis. 14) A third aspect of the invention relates to novel compounds of the formula (III)

wherein in compounds of the formula (III), ring (A) in the fragment:

represents an aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring or a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring, which ring (A) is fused to the phenyl group, wherein independently said ring (A) optionally contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur (notably such fused group is benzofuranyl, benzothiophenyl, benzothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, indolyl, indazolyl, naphthyl, quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophenyl, benzo[1,3]dioxolyl, 1,3-dihydro-isobenzofuranyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl, indanyl, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalenyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[1,4]dioxinyl, chromanyl, 3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[1,4]oxazinyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolinyl); wherein said fragment is optionally substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, three, or four optional substituents (i.e. said fragment is unsubstituted, or substituted with one, two, three, or four R¹), wherein said substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₂₋₃)alkenyl (especially vinyl), (C₂₋₃)alkynyl (especially ethynyl), (C₁₋₃)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, isopropoxy), halogen (especially fluoro, or chloro), —S—(C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methylsulfanyl), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially trifluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy), cyano, oxo, or amino; and Ar¹ represents

-   -   a phenyl group of the structure (Ar-I):

-   -   wherein         -   R^(p) represents             -   —X¹—CO—R¹, wherein                 -   X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene                     (especially —CH₂—, —CH(CH₃)—, —C(CH₃)₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—),                     —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —O—CH₂—*,                     —O—CH(CH₃)—*, —O—C(CH₃)₂—*, —O—CH₂—CH₂—*),                     —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —NH—CH₂—*,                     —NH—CH(CH₃)—*), —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, or                     (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate                     the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and                 -   R^(O1) represents                 -   —OH;                 -   —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially ethoxy, methoxy);                 -   —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents                     (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂;             -   [wherein in particular such group —X¹—CO—R^(O1)                 represents —COOH, —CO—O—CH₃, —CO—O—C₂H₅, —O—CH₂—COOH,                 —O—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —O—C(CH₃)₂—COOH, —O—CH₂—CH₂—COOH,                 —NH—CH₂—COOH, —NH—CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —NH—CH(CH₃)—COOH,                 —CO—NH—SO₂—CH₃, —CO—NH—SO₂—C(CH₃)₂,                 —CO—NH—SO₂-cyclopropyl, —CO—NH—SO₂—C₂H₅, —CO—NH—SO₂—NH₂,                 —CH₂—COOH, —CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —CH₂—CO—O—C₂H₅, —CH₂—CH₂—COOH,                 —CH═CH—COOH, —NH—CO—COOH, 1-carboxy-cyclopropan-1-yl];         -   HET¹, wherein HET¹ represents             5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl), or             3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 3-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl); or         -   HET, wherein HET represents a group selected from             1H-tetrazol-5-yl, 3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl,             2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl, 3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl,             2-amino-oxazol-5-yl, 5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-amino-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl; especially HET is             1H-tetrazol-5-yl, 3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, or             2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl;     -   R^(m1) represents         -   (C₁₋₆)alkyl (especially methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl,             n-butyl, isobutyl);         -   (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy,             isopropoxy, n-butoxy, isobutoxy);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially difluoromethoxy,             trifluoromethoxy, 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy);         -   halogen (especially fluoro or chloro);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl (especially cyclopropyl);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy (especially cyclopropyl-oxy,             cyclobutyl-oxy, cyclopentyl-oxy);         -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy); or         -   —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially             methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, isobutyl),             (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom             (especially cyclobutyl, oxetan-3-yl);     -   R^(m2) represents hydrogen, methyl, fluoro, or chloro; and     -   R^(o1) represents hydrogen;     -   or Ar¹ represents a 5-membered heteroaryl group of the structure         (Ar-III):

-   -   wherein         -   Y represents CH or N;         -   R⁷ represents             -   —X¹—CO—R^(O1), wherein                 -   X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene                     (especially —CH₂—, —CH(CH₃)—, —C(CH₃)₂—, —CH₂—CH₂—),                     —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —O—CH₂—*,                     —O—CH(CH₃)—*, —O—C(CH₃)₂—*, —O—CH₂—CH₂—*),                     —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-* (especially —NH—CH₂—*,                     —NH—CH(CH₃)—*), —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, or                     (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate                     the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and                 -   R^(O1) represents                 -   —OH;                 -   —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially ethoxy, methoxy);                 -   —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents                     (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the                     (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen                     atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂;         -   [wherein in particular such group —X¹—CO—R^(O1) represents             —COOH, —CO—O—CH₃, —CO—O—C₂H₅, —O—CH₂—COOH, —O—CH(CH₃)—COOH,             —O—C(CH₃)₂—COOH, —O—CH₂—CH₂—COOH, —NH—CH₂—COOH,             —NH—CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —NH—CH(CH₃)—COOH, —CO—NH—SO₂—CH₃,             —CO—NH—SO₂—C(CH₃)₂, —CO—NH—SO₂-cyclopropyl, —CO—NH—SO₂—C₂H₅,             —CO—NH—SO₂—NH₂, —CH₂—COOH, —CH₂—CO—O—CH₃, —CH₂—CO—O—C₂H₅,             —CH₂—CH₂—COOH, —CH═CH—COOH, —NH—CO—COOH,             1-carboxy-cyclopropan-1-yl];         -   HET¹, wherein HET¹ represents             5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 5-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl), or             3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl (encompassing its             tautomeric form 3-hydroxy-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl); or         -   HET, wherein HET represents a group selected from             1H-tetrazol-5-yl, 3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl,             2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl, 3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl,             2-amino-oxazol-5-yl, 5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl,             5-amino-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl; especially HET is             1H-tetrazol-5-yl, 3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, or             2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl;     -   R⁶ represents         -   (C₁₋₆)alkyl (especially methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl,             n-butyl, isobutyl);         -   (C₁₋₄)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy,             isopropoxy, n-butoxy);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially trifluoromethyl);         -   (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially difluoromethoxy,             trifluoromethoxy, 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy);         -   halogen (especially fluoro or chloro);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl (especially cyclopropyl);         -   (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy (especially cyclopropyl-oxy,             cyclobutyl-oxy, cyclopentyl-oxy);         -   hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy (especially 2-hydroxy-ethoxy); or         -   —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl (especially             methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, isobutyl),             (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom             (especially cyclobutyl, oxetan-3-yl).             15) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in             any one of embodiments 1) to 13), for use according to             embodiment 1), and to compounds according to embodiment 14),             wherein Ar¹ represents a group selected from

16) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in any one of embodiments 1) to 13), for use according to embodiment 1), and to compounds according to embodiments 14) or 15), wherein in the fragment

-   -   ring (A) represents an aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring fused to         the phenyl group, wherein said ring (A) optionally contains one         or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen,         and sulfur (notably such fused group is benzofuranyl,         benzothiophenyl, benzothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, indolyl,         indazolyl, naphthyl, quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl); wherein said         fragment is optionally substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein         (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, three, or four optional         substituents (i.e. said fragment is unsubstituted, or         substituted with one, two, three, or four R¹), wherein said         substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl         (especially methyl), (C₁₋₃)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy,         n-propoxy, isopropoxy), halogen (especially fluoro, chloro,         bromo), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially difluoromethyl,         trifluoromethyl), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially         trifluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy), cyano, or amino;     -   or ring (A) represents a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring         fused to the phenyl group, wherein said ring (A) optionally         contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from         nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur (notably such fused group is         2,3-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophenyl, benzo[1,3]dioxolyl,         1,3-dihydro-isobenzofuranyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl, indanyl,         5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalenyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[1,4]dioxinyl,         chromanyl, 3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[1,4]oxazinyl,         1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolinyl; especially benzo[1,3]dioxolyl,         1,3-dihydro-isobenzofuranyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl,         1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolinyl); wherein said fragment is         optionally substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n)         represents one, two, or three optional substituents (i.e. said         fragment is unsubstituted, or substituted with one, two, or         three R¹), wherein said substituents R¹ are independently         selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₁₋₃)alkoxy         (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, isopropoxy), halogen         (especially fluoro, or chloro), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially         trifluoromethyl), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially         trifluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy), or oxo (in particular         (C₁₋₃)alkyl or (C₁₋₃)alkoxy).         17) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in any         one of embodiments 1) to 13), for use according to embodiment         1), and to compounds according to embodiments 14) or 15),         wherein the fragment

represents

-   -   a group selected from benzofuranyl, benzothiophenyl,         benzothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, indolyl, indazolyl, naphthyl,         quinolinyl, and isoquinolinyl; which group independently is         unsubstituted or substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n)         represents one, two, or three substituents, wherein said         substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl         (especially methyl), (C₁₋₃)alkoxy (especially methoxy, ethoxy,         n-propoxy, isopropoxy), halogen (especially fluoro, chloro,         bromo), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially difluoromethyl,         trifluoromethyl), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially         trifluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy), cyano, or amino; or     -   a group selected from 2,3-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophenyl,         benzo[1,3]dioxolyl, 1,3-dihydro-isobenzofuranyl,         2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl, indanyl,         5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalenyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[1,4]dioxinyl,         chromanyl, 3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[1,4]oxazinyl,         1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolinyl; especially benzo[1,3]dioxolyl,         1,3-dihydro-isobenzofuranyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl,         1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolinyl (especially benzo[1,3]dioxolyl,         2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolinyl); which         group independently is unsubstituted, or substituted with         (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, or three         substituents, wherein said substituents R¹ are independently         selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl (especially methyl), (C₁₋₃)alkoxy         (especially methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, isopropoxy), halogen         (especially fluoro, or chloro), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl (especially         trifluoromethyl), (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy (especially         trifluoromethoxy, difluoromethoxy), or oxo (in particular         (C₁₋₃)alkyl or (C₁₋₃)alkoxy).         18) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in any         one of embodiments 1) to 13), for use according to embodiment         1), and to compounds according to embodiments 14) or 15),         wherein the fragment

represents a group selected from the following groups a), b), c), and d):

-   a) benzothiophen-7-yl, benzothiophen-4-yl,     2-methyl-benzothiazol-7-yl, benzofuran-7-yl, benzofuran-4-yl,     2-methyl-benzofuran-7-yl, 1H-indol-7-yl, 1H-indol-4-yl,     2-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl,     1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl, 1,2-dimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl,     1,2,3-trimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 1,5-dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl; -   b) benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl, 5-methoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl,     5-ethoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl,     5-methoxy-2,3-dihydro-benzofuran-4-yl,     6-methoxy-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolin-5-yl; -   c) naphthalen-1-yl, 4-chloro-naphthalen-1-yl,     4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl,     2-bromo-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl,     4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-amino-naphthalen-1-yl,     2,3-dimethyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl,     3-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl,     2-cyano-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-cyano-naphthalen-1-yl,     4-difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl,     2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2,5-dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl,     2,3-dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-n-propoxy-naphthalen-1-yl,     2-isopropoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-difluoromethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl; and -   d) quinolin-8-yl, 7-chloro-quinolin-8-yl, 6-methyl-quinolin-5-yl,     7-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl, 6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl,     2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl, 6-fluoro-2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl,     5-fluoro-2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl, 7-fluoro-2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl,     7-methoxy-4-methyl-quinolin-8-yl, 6-methoxy-2-methyl-quinolin-5-yl,     isoquinolin-8-yl, isoquinolin-5-yl, 6-methyl-isoquinolin-5-yl;     or said fragment represents a group selected from the following     groups e), f) and g) -   e) 6-fluoro-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl, 5-methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl,     4-bromo-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 1,5-dimethyl-1H-indol-4-yl,     5-ethoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl, 6-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl,     5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl; -   f) 5-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl, 3-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl,     4-bromo-naphthalen-1-yl, 5-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl,     2-bromo-4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl,     2-cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl; and -   g) quinolin-5-yl;     wherein the groups a) to d) together, and the groups e) to g)     together each form a particular sub-embodiment.     19) Another embodiment relates to compounds as defined in any one of     embodiments 1) to 13), for use according to embodiment 1), and to     compounds according to embodiments 14) or 15), wherein the fragment

represents represents a group selected from the following groups a), b), c), and d):

-   a) benzothiophen-7-yl, benzothiophen-4-yl,     benzofuran-7-yl2-methyl-benzofuran-7-yl, 1H-indol-4-yl,     1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl,     1,5-dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl; -   b) 5-ethoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl,     5-methoxy-2,3-dihydro-benzofuran-4-yl; -   c) naphthalen-1-yl, 4-chloro-naphthalen-1-yl,     4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl,     2-bromo-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl,     4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-amino-naphthalen-1-yl,     2,3-dimethyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl,     3-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl,     2-cyano-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-cyano-naphthalen-1-yl,     4-difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl,     2,3-dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-n-propoxy-naphthalen-1-yl,     2-isopropoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-difluoromethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl; -   d) 6-methyl-quinolin-5-yl, 6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl,     isoquinolin-5-yl.     20) The invention, thus, relates to compounds of the formula (I) as     defined in embodiment 1) for use according to embodiment 1), or to     such compounds further limited by the characteristics of any one of     embodiments 2) to 19), under consideration of their respective     dependencies; to pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof; and to     the use of such compounds according to embodiment 1), and as further     described herein below. For avoidance of any doubt, especially the     following embodiments relating to the compounds of formula (I) are     thus possible and intended and herewith specifically disclosed in     individualized form:     1, 4+1, 5+4+1, 6+4+1, 7+4+1, 8+4+1, 9+4+1, 10+4+1, 10+5+4+1,     10+6+4+1, 10+7+4+1, 10+8+4+1, 10+9+4+1, 16+4+1, 16+5+4+1, 16+6+4+1,     16+7+4+1, 16+8+4+1, 16+9+4+1, 16+10+4+1, 16+10+5+4+1, 16+10+6+4+1,     16+10+7+4+1, 16+10+8+4+1, 16+10+9+4+1, 17+4+1, 17+5+4+1, 17+6+4+1,     17+7+4+1, 17+8+4+1, 17+9+4+1, 17+10+4+1, 17+10+5+4+1, 17+10+6+4+1,     17+10+7+4+1, 17+10+8+4+1, 17+10+9+4+1, 18+4+1, 18+5+4+1, 18+6+4+1,     18+7+4+1, 18+8+4+1, 18+9+4+1, 18+10+4+1, 18+10+5+4+1, 18+10+6+4+1,     18+10+7+4+1, 18+10+8+4+1, 18+10+9+4+1, 19+4+1, 19+5+4+1, 19+6+4+1,     19+7+4+1, 19+8+4+1, 19+9+4+1, 19+10+4+1, 19+10+5+4+1, 19+10+6+4+1,     19+10+7+4+1, 19+10+8+4+1, 19+10+9+4+1.

In the list above the numbers refer to the embodiments according to their numbering provided hereinabove whereas “+” indicates the dependency from another embodiment. The different individualized embodiments are separated by commas. In other words, “19+9+4+1” for example refers to embodiment 19) depending on embodiment 9), depending on embodiment 4), depending on embodiment 1), i.e. embodiment “19+9+4+1” corresponds to the compounds of formula (I) as defined in embodiment 1) for use according to embodiment 1), further limited by all the structural features of the embodiments 4), 9), and 19).

21) The invention, thus, further relates to compounds of the formula (III) as defined in embodiment 14), or to such compounds further limited by the characteristics of any one of embodiments 15) to 19), under consideration of their respective dependencies; to pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof; and to the use of such compounds as medicaments especially in the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of diseases which respond to the blockage of the EP2 receptors and/or the EP4 receptors as described herein below. For avoidance of any doubt, especially the following embodiments relating to the compounds of formula (III) are thus possible and intended and herewith specifically disclosed in individualized form: 14, 15+14, 16+14, 16+15+14, 17+14, 17+15+14, 18+14, 18+15+14, 19+14, 19+15+14.

In the list above the numbers refer to the embodiments according to their numbering provided hereinabove whereas “+” indicates the dependency from another embodiment. The different individualized embodiments are separated by commas. In other words, “19+15+14” for example refers to embodiment 19) depending on embodiment 15), depending on embodiment 14), i.e. embodiment “19+15+14” corresponds to the compounds of formula (III) according to embodiment 14) further limited by all the features of the embodiments 15), and 19).

22) Another embodiment relates to compounds of formula (I) as defined in embodiment 1) for use according to embodiment 1) which are selected from the following compounds:

-   [2-(6-Methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethyl]-[6-(3,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2H-[1,2′]bipyridinyl-4′-yl)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-amine; -   [2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)-ethyl]-(6-quinolin-6-yl-pyrimidin-4-yl)-amine;     and -   [2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)-ethyl]-(6-isoquinolin-7-yl-pyrimidin-4-yl)-amine.     23) Another embodiment relates to compounds of formula (II) as     defined in embodiment 4) which are selected from the following     compounds: -   3-Hydroxy-4-(4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-cyclobut-3-ene-1,2-dione; -   2-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-1H-indole-4-carboxylic     acid; -   2-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-1H-indole-5-carboxylic     acid; -   2-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-1H-indole-6-carboxylic     acid; -   5-(4-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-isoxazol-3-ol     [tautomeric form:     5-(4-(6-((2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)isoxazol-3(2H)-one]; -   5-(4-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-isoxazol-3-ol     [tautomeric form:     5-(4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)isoxazol-3(2H)-one]; -   2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenol;     and -   {6-[4-(5-Amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl)-phenyl]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethyl]-amine.     24) In addition to the compounds listed in embodiment 23), further     compounds of formula (II) as defined in embodiment 4), are selected     from the following compounds: -   3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-[1,2,4]-oxadiazole-5(4H)-thione     [tautomeric form:     3-(2-ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazole-5-thiol];     and -   3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzyl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzyl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-ol].     25) Another embodiment relates to compounds of formula (III)     according to embodiment 14), which are selected from the following     compounds: -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methyl-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-naphthalen-1-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(2-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(2,3-Dimethyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-2-methyl-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(2,3-Dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(7-Chloro-quinolin-8-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1,2,3-trimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-isopropoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(2-Difluoromethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; acid; -   5-[6-(2-Benzofuran-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-propoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(3-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(5-ethoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(4-Chloro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(2-Cyano-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(4-Cyano-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(4-Difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methyl-benzofuran-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(2-Amino-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methyl-isoquinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   (E)-3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-acrylic     acid; -   2-Butoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   4-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-propyl-benzoic     acid; -   {6-[3-Ethoxy-4-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)-phenyl]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethyl]-amine; -   3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-4H-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(2-ethoxy-4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]; -   3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-propionic     acid; -   N-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-oxalamic     acid; -   3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)-N-sulfamoylthiophene-2-carboxamide; -   N-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carbonyl)-methanesulfonamide; -   3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(5-(6-((2-(1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)-3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]; -   3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]; -   3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-quinolin-8-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(quinolin-8-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]; -   3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(4-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]; -   3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]; -   3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(5-(6-((2-(1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)-3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]; -   3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-isoquinolin-5-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(isoquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]; -   {6-[4-Ethoxy-5-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)-thiophen-2-yl]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethyl]-amine;     4-Ethoxy-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazole-5-carboxylic     acid; -   3-(4-Ethoxy-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazol-5-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(4-ethoxy-2-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]; -   5-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid;     3-(2-Hydroxy-ethoxy)-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid.     26) In addition to the compounds listed in embodiment 25), further     compounds of formula (III) according to embodiment 14), are selected     from the following compounds: -   2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   2-Ethoxy-4-[6-(2-naphthalen-1-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-benzoic     acid; -   4-{6-[2-(2-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic     acid; -   2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(7-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(1,2-Dimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   4-{6-[2-(2-Cyano-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methyl-isoquinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic     acid; -   2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-propionic     acid; -   2-Isobutyl-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   2-Fluoro-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-6-propyl-benzoic     acid; -   2-Butoxy-6-fluoro-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   2-Difluoromethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   (3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-acetic     acid; -   4-Ethyl-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazole-5-carboxylic     acid; and -   2-(2-Hydroxy-ethoxy)-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid.     27) In addition to the compounds listed in embodiments 25) and 26),     further compounds of formula (III) according to embodiment 14), are     selected from the following compounds: -   5-{6-[2-(2,5-Dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   2-Ethylsulfanyl-4-{6-[2-(4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; and -   3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-isoquinolin-8-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(isoquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol].     28) In addition to the compounds listed in embodiments 25) to 27),     further compounds of formula (III) according to embodiment 14), are     selected from the following compounds: -   4-{6-[2-(4-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic     acid; -   5-{6-[2-(2-Cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic     acid; -   4-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic     acid; -   4-{6-[2-(4-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic     acid; -   (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic     acid; -   2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   3-(4-Ethyl-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazol-5-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one     [tautomeric form:     3-(4-ethyl-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazol-5-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-ol];     and -   4-{6-[2-(5-Methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic     acid.     29) In addition to the compounds listed in embodiments 25) to 28),     further compounds of formula (III) according to embodiment 14), are     selected from the following compounds: -   (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic     acid; -   (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic     acid; -   2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-quinolin-5-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-ol     [tautomeric form: -   3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(quinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5(4H)-one]; -   (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic     acid; -   4-{6-[2-(5-Fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic     acid; -   2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic     acid; -   2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-ethoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   4-{6-[2-(5-Methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic     acid; -   4-{6-[2-(5-Ethoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic     acid; -   2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic     acid; -   4-{6-[2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic     acid; and -   4-{6-[2-(5-Methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic     acid.

The compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) according to embodiments 1) to 29) and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts can be used as medicaments, e.g. in the form of pharmaceutical compositions for enteral (such especially oral e.g. in form of a tablet or a capsule) or parenteral administration (including topical application or inhalation).

The production of the pharmaceutical compositions can be effected in a manner which will be familiar to any person skilled in the art (see for example Remington, The Science and Practice of Pharmacy, 21st Edition (2005), Part 5, “Pharmaceutical Manufacturing” [published by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins]) by bringing the described compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) or their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, optionally in combination with other therapeutically valuable substances, into a galenical administration form together with suitable, non-toxic, inert, therapeutically compatible solid or liquid carrier materials and, if desired, usual pharmaceutical adjuvants.

The present invention also relates to a method for the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of a disease or disorder mentioned herein comprising administering to a subject a pharmaceutically active amount of a compound of formulae (I), (II), or (III) according to embodiments 1) to 29).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the administered amount is comprised between 1 mg and 2000 mg per day, particularly between 5 mg and 1000 mg per day, more particularly between 25 mg and 500 mg per day, especially between 50 mg and 200 mg per day.

Whenever the word “between” is used to describe a numerical range, it is to be understood that the end points of the indicated range are explicitly included in the range. For example: if a temperature range is described to be between 40° C. and 80° C., this means that the end points 40° C. and 80° C. are included in the range; or if a variable is defined as being an integer between 1 and 4, this means that the variable is the integer 1, 2, 3, or 4.

Unless used regarding temperatures, the term “about” placed before a numerical value “X” refers in the current application to an interval extending from X minus 10% of X to X plus 10% of X, and preferably to an interval extending from X minus 5% of X to X plus 5% of X. In the particular case of temperatures, the term “about” placed before a temperature “Y” refers in the current application to an interval extending from the temperature Y minus 10° C. to Y plus 10° C., and preferably to an interval extending from Y minus 5° C. to Y plus 5° C.

For avoidance of any doubt, if compounds are described as useful for the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of certain diseases, such compounds are likewise suitable for use in the preparation of a medicament for the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of said diseases. Likewise, such compounds are also suitable in a method for the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of such diseases, comprising administering to a subject (mammal, especially human) in need thereof, an effective amount of such compound.

The compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) according to embodiments 1) to 29) are useful for the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of disorders relating to the EP2 and/or EP4 receptors.

Certain compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) according to embodiments 1) to 29) exhibit their biological activity as modulators of the prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4 in a biological environment, (i.e. in the presence of one or more enzymes capable of breaking a covalent bond linked to a carbonyl group such as an amidase, an esterase or any suitable equivalent thereof capable of removing a prodrug group from a carboxylic acid group.

Diseases or disorders relating to the EP2 and/or EP4 receptors are especially

-   -   cancer (notably melanoma including metastatic melanoma; lung         cancer including non-small cell lung cancer; bladder cancer         including urinary bladder cancer, urothelial cell carcinoma;         renal carcinomas including renal cell carcinoma, metastatic         renal cell carcinoma, metastatic renal clear cell carcinoma;         gastro-intestinal cancers including colorectal cancer,         metastatic colorectal cancer, familial adenomatous polyposis         (FAP), oesophageal cancer, gastric cancer, gallbladder cancer,         cholangiocarcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and pancreatic         cancer such as pancreatic adenocarcinoma or pancreatic ductal         carcinoma; endometrial cancer; ovarian cancer; cervical cancer;         neuroblastoma; prostate cancer including castrate-resistant         prostate cancer; brain tumors including brain metastases,         malignant gliomas, glioblastoma multiforme, medulloblastoma,         meningiomas; breast cancer including triple negative breast         carcinoma; oral tumors; nasopharyngeal tumors; thoracic cancer;         head and neck cancer; leukemias including acute myeloid         leukemia, adult T-cell leukemia; carcinomas; adenocarcinomas;         thyroid carcinoma including papillary thyroid carcinoma;         choriocarcinoma; Ewing's sarcoma; osteosarcoma;         rhabdomyosarcoma; Kaposi's sarcoma; lymphoma including Burkitt's         lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma, MALT lymphoma; multiple myelomas;         and virally induced tumors; especially melanoma; lung cancer;         bladder cancer; renal carcinomas; gastro-intestinal cancers;         endometrial cancer; ovarian cancer; cervical cancer; and         neuroblastoma);         as well as further diseases or disorders relating to the EP2         and/or EP4 receptors such as:     -   pain (notably inflammatory pain and painful menstruation);     -   endometriosis;     -   autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease;     -   acute ischemic syndromes in atherosclerotic patients;     -   pneumonia; and     -   neurodegenerative diseases including amyotrophic lateral         sclerosis, stroke; Parkinson disease, Alzheimer's disease and         HIV associated dementia;     -   and EP2 and/or EP4 antagonists may further be used to control         female fertility.

The compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) according to any one of embodiments 1) to 29) are in particular useful as therapeutic agents for the prevention/prophylaxis or treatment of a cancer. They can be used as single therapeutic agents or in combination with one or more chemotherapy agents and/or radiotherapy and/or targeted therapy. Such combined treatment may be effected simultaneously, separately, or over a period of time.

The invention, thus, also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier material, and:

-   -   a compound of formulae (I), (II), or (III) according to any one         of embodiments 1) to 29);     -   and one or more cytotoxic chemotherapy agents.

The invention, thus, further relates to a kit comprising

-   -   a pharmaceutical composition, said composition comprising a         pharmaceutically acceptable carrier material, and:         -   a compound of formulae (I), (II), or (Ill) according to any             one of embodiments 1) to 29);     -   and instructions how to use said pharmaceutical composition for         the prevention/prophylaxis or the treatment of a cancer, in         combination with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy and/or         targeted therapy.

The terms “radiotherapy” or “radiation therapy” or “radiation oncology”, refer to the medical use of ionizing radiation in the prevention/prophylaxis (adjuvant therapy) and/or treatment of cancer; including external and internal radiotherapy.

The term “targeted therapy” refers to the prevention/prophylaxis (adjuvant therapy) and/or treatment of cancer with one or more anti-neoplastic agents such as small molecules or antibodies which act on specific types of cancer cells or stromal cells. Some targeted therapies block the action of certain enzymes, proteins, or other molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Other types of targeted therapies help the immune system kill cancer cells (immunotherapies); or inhibit angiogenesis, the growth and formation of new blood vessels in the tumor; or deliver toxic substances directly to cancer cells and kill them. An example of a targeted therapy which is in particular suitable to be combined with the compounds of the present invention is immunotherapy, especially immunotherapy targeting the programmed cell death receptor 1 (PD-1 receptor) or its ligand PD-L1 (Zelenay et al., 2015, Cell 162, 1-14; Yongkui Li et al., Oncoimmunology 2016, 5(2):e1074374).

When used in combination with the compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III), the term “targeted therapy” especially refers to agents such as:

-   -   a) Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors or         blocking antibodies (for example Gefitinib, Erlotinib, Afatinib,         Icotinib, Lapatinib, Panitumumab, Zalutumumab, Nimotuzumab,         Matuzumab and Cetuximab);     -   b) RAS/RAF/MEK pathway inhibitors (for example Vemurafenib,         Sorafenib, Dabrafenib, GDC-0879, PLX-4720, LGX818, RG7304,         Trametinib (GSK1120212), Cobimetinib (GDC-0973/XL518),         Binimetinib (MEK162, ARRY-162), Selumetinib (AZD6244));     -   c) Aromatase inhibitors (for example Exemestane, Letrozole,         Anastrozole, Vorozole, Formestane, Fadrozole);     -   d) Angiogenesis inhibitors, especially VEGF signalling         inhibitors such as Bevacuzimab (Avastin), Ramucirumab, Sorafenib         or Axitinib;     -   e) Immune Checkpoint inhibitors (for example: anti-PD1         antibodies such as Pembrolizumab (Lambrolizumab, MK-3475),         Nivolumab, Pidilizumab (CT-011), AMP-514/MED10680, PDR001,         SHR-1210; REGN2810, BGBA317; fusion proteins targeting PD-1 such         as AMP-224; small molecule anti-PD1 agents such as for example         compounds disclosed in WO2015/033299, WO2015/044900 and         WO2015/034820; anti-PD1L antibodies, such as BMS-936559,         atezolizumab (MPDL3280A, RG7446), MED14736, avelumab         (MSB0010718C), durvalumab (MED14736); anti-PDL2 antibodies, such         as AMP224; anti-CTLA-4 antibodies, such as ipilimumab,         tremilmumab; anti-Lymphocyte-activation gene 3 (LAG-3)         antibodies, such as BMS-986016, IMP701, MK-4280, ImmuFact         IMP321; anti T cell immunoglobulin mucin-3 (TIM-3) antibodies,         such as MBG453; anti-CD137/4-1BB antibodies, such as         BMS-663513/urelumab, PF-05082566; anti T cell immunoreceptor         with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT) antibodies, such as RG6058         (anti-TIGIT, MTIG7192A);     -   f) Vaccination approaches (for example dendritic cell         vaccination, peptide or protein vaccination (for example with         gp100 peptide or MAGE-A3 peptide);     -   g) Re-introduction of patient derived or allogenic (non-self)         cancer cells genetically modified to secrete immunomodulatory         factors such as granulocyte monocyte colony stimulating factor         (GMCSF) gene-transfected tumor cell vaccine (GVAX) or         Fms-related tyrosine kinase 3 (Flt-3) ligand gene-transfected         tumor cell vaccine (FVAX),or Toll like receptor enhanced GM-CSF         tumor based vaccine (TEGVAX);     -   h) T-cell based adoptive immunotherapies, including chimeric         antigen receptor (CAR) engineered T-cells (for example CTL019);     -   i) Cytokine or immunocytokine based therapy (for example         Interferon alpha, interferon beta, interferon gamma, interleukin         2, interleukin 15);     -   j) Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists (for example resiquimod,         imiquimod, glucopyranosyl lipid A, CpG oligodesoxynucleotides);     -   k) Thalidomide analogues (for example Lenalidomide,         Pomalidomide);     -   l) Indoleamin-2,3-Dioxgenase (IDO) and/or         Tryptophane-2,3-Dioxygenase (TDO) inhibitors (for example         RG6078/NLG919/GDC-0919; Indoximod/1MT (1-methyltryptophan),         INCB024360/Epacadostat, PF-06840003 (EOS200271), F001287);     -   m) Activators of T-cell co-stimulatory receptors (for example         anti-OX40/CD134 (Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily,         member 4, such as RG7888 (MOXR0916), 9B12; MED16469, GSK3174998,         MED10562), anti OX40-Ligand/CD252; anti-glucocorticoid-induced         TNFR family related gene (GITR) (such as TRX518, MED11873,         MK-4166, BMS-986156), anti-CD40 (TNF receptor superfamily         member 5) antibodies (such as Dacetuzumab (SGN-40), HCD122,         CP-870,893, RG7876, ADC-1013, APX005M, SEA-CD40);         anti-CD40-Ligand antibodies (such as BG9588); anti-CD27         antibodies such as Varlilumab);     -   n) Molecules binding a tumor specific antigen as well as a         T-cell surface marker such as bispecific antibodies (for example         RG7802 targeting CEA and CD3) or antibody fragments, antibody         mimetic proteins such as designed ankyrin repeat proteins         (DARPINS), bispecific T-cell engager (BITE, for example AMG103,         AMG330);     -   o) Antibodies or small molecular weight inhibitors targeting         colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor (CSF-1R) (for example         Emactuzumab (RG7155), Cabiralizumab (FPA-008), PLX3397);     -   p) Agents targeting immune cell check points on natural killer         cells such as antibodies against Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like         receptors (KIR) for example Lirilumab (IPH2102/BMS-986015);     -   q) Agents targeting the Adenosine receptors or the ectonucleases         CD39 and CD73 that convert ATP to Adenosine, such as MED19447         (anti-CD73 antibody), PBF-509; CPI-444 (Adenosine A2a receptor         antagonist).

When used in combination with the compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III), immune checkpoint inhibitors such as those listed under d), and especially those targeting the programmed cell death receptor 1 (PD-1 receptor) or its ligand PD-L1, are preferred.

The term “chemotherapy” refers to the treatment of cancer with one or more cytotoxic anti-neoplastic agents (“cytotoxic chemotherapy agents”). Chemotherapy is often used in conjunction with other cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy or surgery. The term especially refers to conventional cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents which act by killing cells that divide rapidly, one of the main properties of most cancer cells. Chemotherapy may use one drug at a time (single-agent chemotherapy) or several drugs at once (combination chemotherapy or polychemotherapy). Chemotherapy using drugs that convert to cytotoxic activity only upon light exposure is called photochemotherapy or photodynamic therapy.

The term “cytotoxic chemotherapy agent” or “chemotherapy agent” as used herein refers to an active anti-neoplastic agent inducing apoptosis or necrotic cell death. When used in combination with the compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III), the term especially refers to conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy agents such as:

-   a) alkylating agents (for example mechlorethamine, chlorambucil,     cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, streptozocin, carmustine, lomustine,     melphalan, dacarbazine, temozolomide, fotemustine, thiotepa or     altretamine; especially cyclophosphamide, carmustine, melphalan,     dacarbazine, or temozolomide); -   b) platinum drugs (especially cisplatin, carboplatin or     oxaliplatin); -   c) antimetabolite drugs (for example 5-fluorouracil, folic     acid/leucovorin, capecitabine, 6-mercaptopurine, methotrexate,     gemcitabine, cytarabine, fludarabine or pemetrexed; especially     5-fluorouracil, folic acid/leucovorin, capecitabine, methotrexate,     gemcitabine or pemetrexed); -   d) anti-tumor antibiotics (for example daunorubicin, doxorubicin,     epirubicin, idarubicin, actinomycin-D, bleomycin, mitomycin-C or     mitoxantrone; especially doxorubicin); -   e) mitotic inhibitors (for example paclitaxel, docetaxel,     ixabepilone, vinblastine, vincristine, vinorelbine, vindesine or     estramustine; especially paclitaxel, docetaxel, ixabepilone or,     vincristine); or -   f) topoisomerase inhibitors (for example etoposide, teniposide,     topotecan, irinotecan, diflomotecan or elomotecan; especially     etoposide or irinotecan).

When used in combination with the compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (Ill), preferred cytotoxic chemotherapy agents are the above-mentioned alkylating agents (notably fotemustine, cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, carmustine, dacarbazine and prodrugs thereof such as especially temozolomide or pharmaceutically acceptable salts of these compounds; in particular temozolomide); mitotic inhibitors (notably paclitaxel, docetaxel, ixabepilone; or pharmaceutically acceptable salts of these compounds; in particular paclitaxel); platinum drugs (notably cisplatin, oxaliplatin and carboplatin); as well etoposide and gemcitabine.

Chemotherapy may be given with a curative intent or it may aim to prolong life or to palliate symptoms.

-   -   Combined modality chemotherapy is the use of drugs with other         cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy or surgery.     -   Induction chemotherapy is the first line treatment of cancer         with a chemotherapeutic drug. This type of chemotherapy is used         for curative intent.     -   Consolidation chemotherapy is the given after remission in order         to prolong the overall disease free time and improve overall         survival. The drug that is administered is the same as the drug         that achieved remission.     -   Intensification chemotherapy is identical to consolidation         chemotherapy but a different drug than the induction         chemotherapy is used.     -   Combination chemotherapy involves treating a patient with a         number of different drugs simultaneously. The drugs differ in         their mechanism and side effects. The biggest advantage is         minimising the chances of resistance developing to any one         agent. Also, the drugs can often be used at lower doses,         reducing toxicity.     -   Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is given prior to a local treatment         such as surgery, and is designed to shrink the primary tumor. It         is also given to cancers with a high risk of micrometastatic         disease.     -   Adjuvant chemotherapy is given after a local treatment         (radiotherapy or surgery). It can be used when there is little         evidence of cancer present, but there is risk of recurrence. It         is also useful in killing any cancerous cells that have spread         to other parts of the body. These micrometastases can be treated         with adjuvant chemotherapy and can reduce relapse rates caused         by these disseminated cells.     -   Maintenance chemotherapy is a repeated low-dose treatment to         prolong remission.     -   Salvage chemotherapy or palliative chemotherapy is given without         curative intent, but simply to decrease tumor load and increase         life expectancy. For these regimens, a better toxicity profile         is generally expected.

“Simultaneously”, when referring to an administration type, means in the present application that the administration type concerned consists in the administration of two or more active ingredients and/or treatments at approximately the same time; wherein it is understood that a simultaneous administration will lead to exposure of the subject to the two or more active ingredients and/or treatments at the same time. When administered simultaneously, said two or more active ingredients may be administered in a fixed dose combination, or in an equivalent non-fixed dose combination (e.g. by using two or more different pharmaceutical compositions to be administered by the same route of administration at approximately the same time), or by a non-fixed dose combination using two or more different routes of administration; wherein said administration leads to essentially simultaneous exposure of the subject to the two or more active ingredients and/or treatments. For example, when used in combination with chemotherapy and/or suitable targeted therapy, the present EP2/EP4 antagonists would possibly be used “simultaneously”.

“Fixed dose combination”, when referring to an administration type, means in the present application that the administration type concerned consists in the administration of one single pharmaceutical composition comprising the two or more active ingredients.

“Separately”, when referring to an administration type, means in the present application that the administration type concerned consists in the administration of two or more active ingredients and/or treatments at different points in time; wherein it is understood that a separate administration will lead to a treatment phase (e.g. at least 1 hour, notably at least 6 hours, especially at least 12 hours) where the subject is exposed to the two or more active ingredients and/or treatments at the same time; but a separate administration may also lead to a treatment phase where for a certain period of time (e.g. at least 12 hours, especially at least one day) the subject is exposed to only one of the two or more active ingredients and/or treatments. Separate administration especially refers to situations wherein at least one of the active ingredients and/or treatments is given with a periodicity substantially different from daily (such as once or twice daily) administration (e.g. wherein one active ingredient and/or treatment is given e.g. once or twice a day, and another is given e.g. every other day, or once a week or at even longer distances). For example, when used in combination with radiotherapy, the present EP2/EP4 antagonists would possibly be used “separately”.

By administration “over a period of time” is meant in the present application the subsequent administration of two or more active ingredients and/or treatments at different times. The term in particular refers to an administration method according to which the entire administration of one of the active ingredients and/or treatments is completed before the administration of the other/the others begins. In this way it is possible to administer one of the active ingredients and/or treatments for several months before administering the other active ingredient(s) and/or treatment(s).

Administration “over a period of time” also encompasses situations wherein the compound of formulae (I), (II), or (III) would be used in a treatment that starts after termination of an initial chemotherapeutic (for example an induction chemotherapy) and/or radiotherapeutic treatment and/or targeted therapy treatment, wherein optionally said treatment would be in combination with a further/an ongoing chemotherapeutic and/or radiotherapeutic treatment and/or targeted therapy treatment (for example in combination with a consolidation chemotherapy, an intensification chemotherapy, an adjuvant chemotherapy, or a maintenance chemotherapy; or radiotherapeutic equivalents thereof); wherein such further/ongoing chemotherapeutic and/or radiotherapeutic treatment and/or targeted therapy treatment would be simultaneously, separately, or over a period of time in the sense of “not given with the same periodicity”.

The compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) as defined in embodiments 1) to 29) are also useful in a method of modulating an immune response in a subject having a tumor, comprising the administration of an effective amount of the compound of formulae (I), (II), or (III) [wherein notably said administration of said effective amount results in the pharmacologically active blockage of the EP2 receptors, or of the EP4 receptors, or of both the EP2 and the EP4 receptors]; wherein said effective amount reactivates the immune system in the tumor of said subject; wherein especially said effective amount:

-   -   counteracts the polarization of tumor-associated macrophages         towards tumor-promoting M2 macrophages; and/or     -   down-regulates the activation, expansion and/or the effector         function of immunosuppressive cells that have accumulated in a         tumor (especially of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and/or myeloid         derived suppressor cells (MDSC)); and/or     -   up-regulates IFN-γ and/or TNF-α and/or IL-12 and/or IL-2         expression in immune cells such as natural killer cells,         T-cells, dendritic cells and macrophages (leading to the         induction of tumor cell apoptosis and/or restrained         tumorigenesis); and/or     -   directly or indirectly counteracts the suppressed activation,         IL-2 responsiveness and expansion of cytotoxic T-cells (thereby         decreasing local immunsuppresion).

The compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) as defined in embodiments 1) to 29) are also useful in a method of diminishing tumor growth and/or reducing tumor size in a subject having a tumor, comprising the administration of an effective amount of the compound of formulae (I), (II), or (III) [wherein notably said administration of said effective amount results in the pharmacologically active blockage of the EP2 receptors, or of the EP4 receptors, or of both the EP2 and the EP4 receptors]; wherein said effective amount down-regulates tumor angiogenesis (especially by decreasing endothelial cell motility and/or survival, and/or by decreasing the expression of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor)); and/or wherein said effective amount diminishes tumor cell survival and/or induces tumor cell apoptosis (especially via inhibition of PI3K/AKT and MAPK signalling).

The compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) as defined in embodiments 1) to 29) are also useful in a method of modulating an immune response in a subject having a tumor, comprising the administration of an effective amount of the compound of formulae (I), (II), or (III) [wherein notably said administration of said effective amount results in the pharmacologically active blockage of the EP2 receptors, or of the EP4 receptors, or of both the EP2 and the EP4 receptors]; wherein said effective amount reactivates the immune system in the tumor of said subject; wherein said effective amount activates the cytotoxicity and cytokine production of natural killer cells and/or cytotoxic T-cells.

Besides, any preferences and (sub-)embodiments indicated for the compounds of formulae (II) or (III) (whether for the compounds themselves, salts thereof, compositions containing the compounds or salts thereof, or uses of the compounds or salts thereof, etc.) apply mutatis mutandis to compounds of formula (I).

Preparation of Compounds of Formulae (I), (II), or (III):

The compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (Ill) can be prepared by well-known literature methods, by the methods given below, by the methods given in the experimental part below or by analogous methods. Optimum reaction conditions may vary with the particular reactants or solvents used, but such conditions can be determined by a person skilled in the art by routine optimisation procedures. In some cases the order of carrying out the following reaction schemes, and/or reaction steps, may be varied to facilitate the reaction or to avoid unwanted reaction products. In the general sequence of reactions outlined below, the generic groups R¹, R³, R^(4a), R^(4b), R^(5a), R^(5b) and Ar¹ are as defined for formulae (I), (II), or (III). Other abbreviations used herein are explicitly defined, or are as defined in the experimental section. In some instances the generic groups R¹, R³, R^(4a), R^(4b), R^(5a), R^(5b) and Ar¹ might be incompatible with the assembly illustrated in the schemes below and so will require the use of protecting groups (PG). The use of protecting groups is well known in the art (see for example “Protective Groups in Organic Synthesis”, T. W. Greene, P. G. M. Wuts, Wiley-Interscience, 1999). For the purposes of this discussion, it will be assumed that such protecting groups as necessary are in place. In some cases the final product may be further modified, for example, by manipulation of substituents to give a new final product. These manipulations may include, but are not limited to, reduction, oxidation, alkylation, acylation, hydrolysis and transition-metal catalysed cross-coupling reactions which are commonly known to those skilled in the art. The compounds obtained may also be converted into salts, especially pharmaceutically acceptable salts, in a manner known per se.

Compounds of formulae (I), (II), or (III) of the present invention can be prepared according to the general sequence of reactions outlined below.

A general synthetic route allowing the preparation of compounds of formula (I) is presented in scheme 1. Thus, precursors (3) can be obtained by nucleophilic aromatic substitutions between primary amines (1) and pyrimidines (2) (wherein X is a chlorine, a bromine or an iodine), in the presence of a base such as TEA, DIPEA or K₂CO₃, in a solvent such as isopropanol, butanol, DMF or THF, at RT or at elevated temperatures. Compounds of formula (I) can be produced via metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions of the pyrimidine halide derivatives (3) with a compound of formula (4), for example Suzuki couplings when compounds (4) are boronic acids or boronic esters. Typical Suzuki cross-coupling reactions may be carried out in the presence of a base such as K₂CO₃, Cs₂CO₃, Na₂CO₃, K₃PO₄, or CsF and a catalyst such as Pd(PPh₃)₄, Pd(dppf)C₂ or Pd(OAc)₂, in a solvent like ethanol, THF, water, or RMs thereof, typically at elevated temperatures. Boronic acids or boronate esters A4 can be obtained from commercial sources, or synthesized by methods described in the literature, or by methods known by a person skilled in the art. A boronic acid derivative can be formed by the Miyaura borylation reaction, by cross-coupling of bis(pinacolato)diboron with aryl halides or triflates, in the presence of a base such as potassium acetate and a catalyst such as Pd(dppf)Cl₂. Alternatively, a boronic acid derivative can be formed by a lithiation/borylation sequence, typically at low temperatures, using butyllithium or lithium diisopropylamide as the base, and tri-isopropylborate or isopropoxyboronic acid pinacol ester, in a solvent such as diethyl ether or THF. In a variant, compounds of formula (I) can be prepared via nucleophilic aromatic substitutions between primary amines (1) and substituted pyrimidine halides (5), wherein X is a chlorine, a bromine or an iodine. Alternatively, compounds of formula (I) can be synthesized by reacting a compound of formula (1) with a compound of formula (5) wherein X represents OH, in presence of a cbopoupling agent such as BOP, PyBOP or hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene, in presence of a base such as DBU, DIPEA or TEA in a solvent such as THF, MeCN or DMF, at low temperatures, or at RT or at elevated temperatures.

Preparations of the required primary amines 1 are described in scheme 2. Aminoethylated (hetero)aromatics (8) can be produced via Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reactions of the corresponding (hetero)aromatic electrophiles (6) (bromides, iodides or triflates) with Boc-protected potassium 3-aminoethyltrifluoroborates (7). Such cross-coupling reactions can be performed using described conditions [Pd(dppf)C₂ or combination of Pd(OAc)₂ and RuPhos as the catalytic system, Cs₂CO₃ as a base, in a RM of toluene/H₂O, at elevated temperatures]. The corresponding primary amines (1) can be obtained after Boc-deprotection of derivatives (8), under acidic conditions, and can be converted into compounds of formula (I) with the synthetic sequences described in scheme 1. In a variant presented in scheme 2, primary amines (1) can be prepared starting from carbonyl precursors (9) and nitro compounds (10) via Henry reaction (butylamine/acetic acid/molecular sieves/90° C.) and subsequent reduction of the produced nitroalkenes (11) (lithium aluminum hydride/THF, or NaBH₄/BF₃.Et₂O/THF).

The pyrimidines of formula (5) can be obtained by metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions between compounds of formula (4), typically boronic acids or esters, and di-halo-pyrimidines of formula (2), wherein X═Cl, Br or I (Scheme 3). Compounds of formula (5) wherein X═OH can be obtained by de-alkylation of compounds of formula (13), wherein Alk is typically Me or Et. In turn, (13) can be formed by a cross-coupling reaction between compounds of formula (12), wherein X═Cl, Br, I, and compounds of formula (4), typically boronic acids or esters.

The following examples are provided to illustrate the invention. These examples are illustrative only and should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way.

Experimental Part

I. Chemistry

All temperatures are stated in ° C. Commercially available starting materials were used as received without further purification. Unless otherwise specified, all reactions were carried out in oven-dried glassware under an atmosphere of nitrogen. Compounds were purified by flash column chromatography on silica gel or by preparative HPLC. Compounds described in the invention are characterised by LC-MS data (retention time t_(R) is given in min; molecular weight obtained from the mass spectrum is given in g/mol) using the conditions listed below. In cases where compounds of the present invention appear as a RM of conformational isomers, particularly visible in their LC-MS spectra, the retention time of the most abundant conformer is given. In some cases compounds are isolated after purification in form of the corresponding ammonium salt (*1), such compounds are marked accordingly.

Analytical LC-MS Equipment:

HPLC pump: Binary gradient pump, Agilent G4220A or equivalent

Autosampler: Gilson LH215 (with Gilson 845z injector) or equivalent

Column compartment: Dionex TCC-3000RS or equivalent

Degasser: Dionex SRD-3200 or equivalent

Make-up pump: Dionex HPG-3200SD or equivalent

DAD detector: Agilent G4212A or equivalent

MS detector: Single quadrupole mass analyzer, Thermo Finnigan MSQPlus or equivalent

ELS detector: Sedere SEDEX 90 or equivalent

LC-MS with Acidic Conditions

Method A:

Column: Zorbax SB-aq (3.5 μm, 4.6×50 mm). Conditions: MeCN [eluent A]; water+0.04% TFA [eluent B]. Gradient: 95% B→5% B over 1.5 min (flow: 4.5 mL/min). Detection: UVNis+MS.

Method B:

Column: Zorbax RRHD SB-aq (1.8 μm, 2.1×50 mm). Conditions: MeCN [eluent A]; water+0.04% TFA [eluent B]. Gradient: 95% B→5% B over 2.0 min (flow: 0.8 mL/min). Detection: UVNis+MS.

Method C:

Waters Acquity Binary, Solvent Manager, MS: Waters SQ Detector, DAD: Acquity UPLC PDA Detector, ELSD: Acquity UPLC ELSD. Column ACQUITY UPLC CSH C18 1.7 um 2.1×50 mm from Waters, thermostated in the Acquity UPLC Column Manager at 60° C. Eluents: A: H2O+0.05% formic acid; B: MeCN+0.045% formic acid. Method: Gradient: 2% B 98% B over 2.0 min. Flow: 1.0 mL/min. Detection: UV 214 nm and ELSD, and MS, t_(R) is given in min.

LC-MS with Basic Conditions

Method D:

Column: Waters BEH C₁₈, 3.0×50 mm, 2.5 μm, Eluents: A: Water/NH3 [c(NH₃)=13 mmol/I], B: MeCN, Method: 5% B to 95% B in 1.2 min, Flow 1.6 ml/min, Detection UV: 214 nm

Preparative HPLC Equipment:

Gilson 333/334 HPLC pump equipped with Gilson LH215, Dionex SRD-3200 degasser,

Dionex ISO-3100A make-up pump, Dionex DAD-3000 DAD detector, Single quadrupole mass analyzer MS detector, Thermo Finnigan MSQ Plus, MRA100-000 flow splitter, Polymer Laboratories PL-ELS1000 ELS detector

Preparative HPLC with Basic Conditions

Column: Waters XBridge (10 μm, 75×30 mm). Conditions: MeCN [eluent A]; water+0.5% NH₄OH (25% aq.) [eluent B]; Gradient see Table 1 (flow: 75 mL/min), the starting percentage of Eluent A (x) is determined depending on the polarity of the compound to purify. Detection: UVNis+MS

TABLE 1 t (min) 0 0.01 4.0 6.0 6.2 6.6 Eluent A (%) x x 95 95 x x Eluent B (%) 100-x 100-x 5 5 100-x 100-x

Preparative HPLC with Acidic Conditions

Column: Waters Atlantis T3 (10 μm, 75×30 mm). Conditions: MeCN [eluent A]; water+0.5% HCO₂H [eluent B]; Gradient see Table 2 (flow: 75 mL/min), the starting percentage of Eluent A (x) is determined depending on the polarity of the compound to purify. Detection: UVNis+MS

TABLE 2 t (min) 0 0.01 4.0 6.0 6.2 6.6 Eluent A (%) x x 95 95 x x Eluent B (%) 100-x 100-x 5 5 100-x 100-x

Abbreviations (as Used Hereinbefore or Hereinafter):

-   aq. aqueous -   atm atmosphere -   Boc tert-butoxycarbonyl -   BOP (benzotriazol-1-yloxy)-tris(dimethylamino)-phosphonium     hexafluorophosphate -   d days -   DBU 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene -   DCM dichloromethane -   DIPEA diisopropyl-ethylamine, Hünig's base -   DDQ 2,3-Dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone -   DMF dimethylformamide -   DMSO dimethylsulfoxide -   dppf 1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene -   Et ethyl -   Et₂O diethylether -   EtOAc ethyl acetate -   EtOH ethanol -   Ex. example -   FC flash chromatography on silica gel -   h hour(s) -   hept heptane(s) -   HPLC high performance liquid chromatography -   HV high vacuum conditions -   ^(i)Bu isobutyl -   ^(i)Pr isopropyl -   LAH lithium aluminium hydride -   LC-MS liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry -   Lit. Literature -   Me methyl -   MeCN acetonitrile -   MeOH methanol -   mL milliliter -   min minute(s) -   MW microwave -   NaHMDS sodium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide -   ^(n)Pr n-propyl -   OAc acetate -   Pd₂dba₃ Tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium(0) -   Pd(dppf)Cl₂.DCM     [1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino)-ferrocene]dichloropalladium (II)     complex with dichloromethane -   Ph phenyl -   PPh₃ triphenyl phosphine -   prep. preparative -   PyBOP (benzotriazol-1-yl-oxy)-tripyrrolidino-phosphonium     hexafluorophosphate -   rac racemic -   RM reaction mixture -   RT room temperature -   RuPhos 2-Dicyclohexylphosphino-2′,6′-diisopropoxybiphenyl -   s second(s) -   sat. saturated -   tBu tert-butyl=tertiary butyl -   TEA triethylamine -   TFA trifluoroacetic acid -   THF tetrahydrofuran -   TLC thin layer chromatography -   tosyl p-toluene-sulfonyl -   t_(R) retention time -   triflate trifluoromethanesulfonate

General Procedures

General Procedure A: Nitro-Aldol Condensation and Dehydration

To a solution of aromatic aldehyde (10 mmol) in nitromethane (20 mL) at RT are added butylamine (0.117 mL, 1.18 mmol), acetic acid (0.116 mL, 2.04 mmol) and 4 Å molecular sieves (100 mg). The RM is stirred at 90° C. for 1 h, then cooled to RT and concentrated in vacuo. The residue is partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic phase is washed once more with water then with brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated in vacuo. The crude product is purified by preparative HPLC or by FC if needed.

General Procedure B: Nitrostyrene Reduction

LAH (2M in THF, 11 mL, 21.8 mmol) is added dropwise at 0° C. to a solution of nitrostyrene (6.24 mmol) in THF (30 mL). The RM is stirred at RT for 2 h, then cooled to 0° C., and quenched carefully with water (1.28 mL), 15% aqueous NaOH (1.28 mL), and water (3.9 mL). The resulting suspension is stirred at RT for 1 h, then filtered and washed with Et₂O. The filtrate is concentrated under reduced pressure, and the crude product is purified by preparative HPLC or by FC if needed.

Alternatively, to a solution of sodium borohydride (251 mg, 6.51 mmol) in THF (7 mL) at 0° C. is added BF₃.Et₂O (1.06 mL, 8.14 mmol). The RM is stirred 10 min at 0° C. then 15 min at RT. A solution of nitrostyrene (1.36 mmol) in THF (3 mL) is added dropwise and the RM is refluxed overnight. The RM is cooled at 0° C. and treated carefully with 2N HCl (8.8 mL, 17.6 mmol). The RM is heated for 1 h at 80° C., then cooled to RT, and the organic solvent is removed under reduced pressure. The remaining aqueous layer is extracted with Et₂O. The aqueous layer is treated with 10% NaOH to reach pH >12 and extracted 3 times with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with brine, dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated in vacuo. The crude product is purified by preparative HPLC or by FC if needed.

General Procedure C: Suzuki Miyaura Coupling with Trifluoroborates

A reaction vessel is charged with the aryl-bromide or triflate (1.91 mmol), potassium tert-butyl n-[2-(trifluoroboranuidyl)ethyl]carbamate (555 mg, 2.1 mmol), cesium carbonate (2489 mg, 7.64 mmol), palladium(II) acetate (21.5 mg, 0.0955 mmol), RuPhos (93.8 mg, 0.191 mmol) and toluene (15 mL) and water (5 mL). The RM is flushed with argon, then heated at 95° C. overnight. The RM is cooled to RT and filtered through a glass microfiber. The filtrate is concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is partitioned between DCM and NH₄Cl saturated solution. Phases are separated and the aqueous layer is extracted twice more with DCM. The combined organic layers are then washed with brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and evaporated in vacuo. The crude product is purified by preparative HPLC or by FC if needed.

General Procedure D: Boc Deprotection (TFA)

To a solution of Boc-protected amine (1.91 mmol) in DCM (40 mL) at 0° C. is added TFA (10 mL). The RM is stirred for 2 h, letting the temperature rise to RT. It is then concentrated in vacuo. The residue is dissolved again in DCM and evaporated in vacuo (twice), affording the free amine as TFA salt.

General Procedure E: Boc Deprotection (HCl)

A solution of Boc-protected amine (1.91 mmol) in DCM (40 mL) at 0° C. is added HCl (4N in dioxane, 10 mL). The RM is stirred for 2 h, letting the temperature rise to RT. It is then concentrated in vacuo, affording the free amine as HCl salt.

General Procedure F: SNAr of 4,6-di-halo-pyrimidine

A solution of aryl-ethylamine (21.1 mmol), 4,6-dichloropyrimidine (3.00 g, 20.1 mmol) and TEA (3.08 mL, 22.2 mmol) in 2-propanol (50 mL) is refluxed for 2 h, then allowed to cool to RT and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is partitioned between sat. aq. NaHCO₃ solution and EtOAc. The layers are separated and the aqueous layer is extracted once more with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water, brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and the solvent is removed in vacuo. The crude product is purified by preparative HPLC or by FC if needed.

General Procedure G: Suzuki Coupling with Pd(PPh₃)₄

A RM of the respective pyrimidine halide derivative (3) (0.15 mmol), the respective boronic acid derivative (4) (0.18 mmol), and K₂CO₃ 2M (0.3 mL, 0.6 mmol) in ethanol (3 mL) is purged with argon, Pd(PPh₃)₄ (0.0075 mmol) is added, and the RM is heated at 90° C. overnight. Alternatively, the reaction can be performed in a MW apparatus, at 120° C. for 15-30 min. The RM is filtered through a 0.45 um Glass MicroFiber filter, washed with EtOH/MeCN and DMF. The filtrate is purified either by preparative HPLC or FC. Alternatively, it is diluted with water, if needed the pH is adjusted, and extracted with EtOAc (3×). The combined organic extracts are dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by preparative HPLC or by FC.

General Procedure H: Suzuki Coupling with Pd(PPh₃)₄ Followed by Ester Hydrolysis

A RM of the respective pyrimidine halide derivative (3) (0.15 mmol), the respective boronic acid derivative (4) (0.18 mmol), and K₂CO₃ 2M (0.3 mL, 0.6 mmol) in EtOH (3 mL) is purged with argon, Pd(PPh₃)₄ (0.0075 mmol) is added, and the RM is heated at 90° C. overnight. Alternatively, the reaction can be performed in a MW apparatus, at 120° C. for 15-30 min. NaOH (32% solution, 0.5 mL) is added, and the RM is stirred at RT for 2-20 h or at 90° C. for 0.5-20 h. It is then filtered through a 0.45 um Glass MicroFiber filter, washed with EtOH and water. The filtrate is either purified directly by preparative HPLC or diluted with 1N HCl, and extracted 3× with EtOAc. The combined organic extracts are dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by preparative HPLC or by FC if needed.

General Procedure I: Phosphonium-Mediated SNAr

To a solution of 6-hydroxy-pyrimidine derivative (0.196 mmol) in DMF (2 mL) and Et₃N (0.109 mL, 0.784 mmol) is added PyBOP (163 mg, 0.313 mmol). The yellow solution is stirred at RT for 15 min, then the respective aryl-ethylamine (0.245 mmol) is added and the RM is stirred at 80° C. overnight. The RM is cooled to RT and treated with a few drops of water and purified by preparative HPLC. Alternatively, the RM is diluted with AcOEt and washed twice with brine. The organic layer is dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated. The residue is purified by preparative HPLC or by FC if needed.

Alternatively, a solution of 6-hydroxy-pyrimidine derivative (0.1 mmol) in DMF (1 mL) is treated with DBU (0.15 mmol) and BOP (0.13 mmol). The solution is stirred at RT for 15 min-1 h, then the respective aryl-ethylamine (0.125 mmol) is added, and the RM is stirred at 80° C. for 2-20 h. The RM is cooled to RT and treated with a few drops of water and purified by preparative HPLC. Or the RM is diluted with EtOAc and washed twice with brine. The organic layer is dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated. The residue is purified by preparative HPLC or by FC if needed.

A—Preparation of Precursors and Intermediates A.1. Synthesis of Pyrimidine Halide Derivatives of Formula (3) A.1.1. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(naphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(1-naphtyl) ethylamine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.91 min; [M+H]⁺=283.94.

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of A.1.1. described above, the following pyrimidine-halide derivatives of formula (3) are synthesized, starting from the corresponding commercially available aryl ethylamines and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine or 4,6-diiodopyrimidine (see table 3).

TABLE 3 Pyrimidine halide derivatives A.1.2.-A.1-24. MS Data t_(R) [min] m/z No. Compound (LC-MS) [M + H]⁺ A.1.2. 1-N-(2-(benzo[b]thiophen-7-yl)ethyl)-6-chloropyrimidin-4-amine 0.89 (A) 290.01 A.1.3. N-(2-(1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)-6-chloropyrimidin-4-amine 0.80 (A) 273.06 A.1.4. 6-chloro-N-(2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.87 (A) 287.10 A.1.5. 6-chloro-N-(2-(4-methylnaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.95 (A) 298.10 A.1.6. 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.92 (A) 314.09 A.1.7. 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.93 (A) 302.05 A.1.8. 6-chloro-N-(2-(4-chloronaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.95 (A) 317.97 A.1.9. 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-ethoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.97 (A) 328.07 A.1.10. 6-chloro-N-(2-(4-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.93 (A) 314.05 A.1.11. 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-methylnaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.95 (A) 298.15 A.1.12 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-propoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.90 (A) 360.08 A.1.13 6-chloro-N-(2-(4-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.93 (A) 302.06 A.1.14 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-(difluoromethoxy)naphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.94 (A) 350.05 A.1.15 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-isopropoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 1.00 (A) 342.02 A.1.16. 6-chloro-N-(2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.58 (A) 315.07 A.1.17. N-(2-(1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)-6-chloropyrimidin-4-amine 0.82 (A) 273.06 A.1.18. 6-chloro-N-(2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.87 (A) 287.08 A.1.19. 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.86 (A) 287.08 A.1.20. 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-methylbenzo[d]thiazol-7-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.82 (A) 305.00 A.1.21. N-(2-(benzofuran-7-yl)ethyl)-6-chloropyrimidin-4-amine 0.85 (A) 274.06 A.1.22. 6-chloro-N-(2-(7-chloroquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.88 (A) 319.02 A.1.23. 6-chloro-N-(2-(quinolin-8-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine 0.62 (A) 285.14 A.1.24. N-(2-(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol-4-yl)ethyl)-6-chloropyrimidin-4-amine 0.82 (A) 278.09

A.1.25. N-(2-(Benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethyl)-6-chloropyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.89 min; [M+H]⁺=289.93.

A.1.25.1 2-(Benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-4-(2-nitrovinyl)benzo[b]thiophene, and obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.53 min; [M+H]⁺=178.29.

A.1.25.2 (E)-4-(2-Nitrovinyl)benzo[b]thiophene

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using benzo[b]thiophene-4-carbaldehyde, and obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.89 min; no ionization.

A.1.26. N-(2-(2-Bromonaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)-6-chloropyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(2-bromonaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.97 min; [M+H]⁺=364.08.

A.1.26.1 2-(2-Bromonaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-2-bromo-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene, and obtained as a RM with 2-(naphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.60 min; [M+H]⁺=249.96.

A.1.26.2 (E)-2-Bromo-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 2-bromo-1-naphthaldehyde, and obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.95 min; no ionization.

A.1.27. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(5-methoxy-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran-4-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(5-methoxy-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran-4-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as an off-white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.84 min; [M+H]⁺=305.95.

A.1.27.1 2-(5-Methoxy-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran-4-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-5-methoxy-4-(2-nitrovinyl)-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran, and obtained as a yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.49 min; [M+H]⁺=194.21.

A.1.27.2 (E)-5-Methoxy-4-(2-nitrovinyl)-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 5-methoxy-2,3-dihydro-1-benzofuran-4-carbaldehyde, and obtained as a deep orange solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.87 min; no ionization.

A.1.28. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(5-methoxybenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-4-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(5-methoxybenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.85 min; [M+H]⁺=308.01.

A.1.28.1 2-(5-Methoxybenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-5-methoxy-4-(2-nitrovinyl)benzo[d][1,3]dioxole, and obtained as a yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.49 min; [M+H]⁺=196.16.

A.1.28.2 (E)-5-Methoxy-4-(2-nitrovinyl)benzo[d][1,3]dioxole

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 5-Methoxy-1,3-benzodioxole-4-carboxaldehyde, and obtained as a deep orange solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.88 min; no ionization.

A.1.29. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(6-methylquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(6-methylquinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a yellow foam. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.57 min; [M+H]⁺=299.06.

A.1.29.1 2-(6-Methylquinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-6-methyl-5-(2-nitrovinyl)quinoline, and obtained as a brown oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.28 min; [M+H]⁺=187.29.

A.1.29.2 (E)-6-Methyl-5-(2-nitrovinyl)quinoline

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 6-methyl-5-quinolinecarbaldehyde, and obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.59 min; [M+H]⁺⁼215.11.

A.1.30. 6-chloro-N-(2-(2,3-dimethylnaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(2,3-dimethylnaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.98 min; [M+H]⁺=312.11.

A.1.30.1 2-(2,3-Dimethylnaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-2,3-dimethyl-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene, and obtained as a pale yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.64 min; [M+H]⁺=200.16.

A.1.30.2 (E)-2,3-Dimethyl-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 2,3-dimethylnaphthalene-1-carbaldehyde, and obtained as a deep yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.97 min; no ionization.

A.1.31. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(3-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(3-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.92 min; [M+H]⁺=314.04.

A.1.31.1 2-(3-Methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-3-methoxy-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene, and obtained as a pale yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.58 min; [M+H]⁺=202.15.

A.1.31.2 (E)-3-Methoxy-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 3-methoxy-1-naphthaldehyde, and obtained as a deep yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.93 min; no ionization.

A.1.32. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(5-ethoxybenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-4-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(5-methoxybenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.90 min; [M+H]⁺=321.93.

A.1.32.1 2-(5-ethoxybenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-5-methoxy-4-(2-nitrovinyl)benzo[d][1,3]dioxole, and obtained as a colorless oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.55 min; [M+H]⁺=210.13.

A.1.32.2 (E)-5-ethoxy-4-(2-nitrovinyl)benzo[d][1,3]dioxole

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 5-ethoxy-1,3-benzodioxole-4-carboxaldehyde, and obtained as a orange solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.92 min; no ionization.

A.1.33. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(1,2,3-trimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(1,2,3-trimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as an off-white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.95 min; [M+H]⁺=315.08.

A.1.33.1 2-(1,2,3-Trimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-1,2,3-trimethyl-7-(2-nitrovinyl)-1H-indole, and obtained as a yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.58 min; [M+H]⁺=203.22.

A.1.33.2 (E)-1,2,3-Trimethyl-7-(2-nitrovinyl)-1H-indole

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 1,2,3-trimethyl-1H-indole-7-carbaldehyde, and obtained as a red solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.96 min; [M+H]⁺=231.13.

A.1.34. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(7-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(7-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as an orange solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.59 min; [M+H]⁺=315.05.

A.1.34.1 2-(7-Methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-7-methoxy-8-(2-nitrovinyl)quinoline, and obtained as an orange oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.36 min; [M+H]⁺=203.16.

A.1.34.2 (E)-7-Methoxy-8-(2-nitrovinyl)quinoline

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 7-methoxy-8-quinolinecarboxaldehyde, and obtained as an orange solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.86 min; [M+H]⁺=231.10.

A.1.35. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(2,5-dimethoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(2,5-dimethoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as white foam. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.94 min; [M+H]⁺=344.07.

A.1.35.1 2-(2,5-dimethoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-2,5-dimethoxy-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene, and obtained as a pale yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.61 min; [M+H]⁺=232.14.

A.1.35.2 (E)-2,5-dimethoxy-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 2,5-dimethoxy-1-naphthaldehyde, and obtained as an orange solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.95 min; [M+H]⁺⁼260.16.

A.1.35.3 2,5-Dimethoxy-1-naphthaldehyde

To a solution of titanium(IV) chloride (1.0 M in DCM; 11.7 mL; 2.2 equiv.) in DCM (40 mL) at 0° C. is added dropwise a solution of dichloromethyl methyl ether (672 mg; 1.1 equiv.) in DCM (3 mL). A solution of 1,6-dimethoxynaphthalene (1.00 g; 5.31 mmol) in DCM (20 mL) is then added dropwise, and the RM is stirred at 0° C. for 5 min. and at RT for 3 h. It is then quenched with 1 M aq. HCl (75 mL). The organic layer is separated and washed successively with water, sat. NaHCO₃ solution, and brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered, and concentrated under reduced pressure. Purification by FC (Hept/DCM 1:9 to DCM) affords the title compound as an orange oil (601 mg, 52%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.87 min; [M+H]⁺=217.07.

A.1.36. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(2,3-dimethoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(2,3-dimethoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a brown oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.93 min; [M+H]⁺=344.05.

A.1.36.1 2-(2,3-Dimethoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-2,3-dimethoxy-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene, and obtained as a yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.59 min; [M+H]⁺=232.07.

A.1.36.2 (E)-2,3-dimethoxy-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 2,3-Dimethoxy-1-naphthaldehyde, and obtained as an orange solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.91 min; no ionization.

A.1.37. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(4-(difluoromethyl)naphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(4-(difluoromethyl)naphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as an off-white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.90 min; [M+H]⁺=334.00.

A.1.37.1 2-(4-(Difluoromethyl)naphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure E described above, using tert-butyl (2-(4-(difluoromethyl)naphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate, and obtained as a pale pink solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.60 min; [M+H]⁺=222.09.

A.1.37.2 Tert-butyl (2-(4-(difluoromethyl)naphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure C described above, using 1-bromo-4-(difluoromethyl)naphthalene, and obtained as an orange solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.96 min; no ionization.

A.1.38. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(2-methylbenzofuran-7-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(2-methylbenzofuran-7-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as an off-white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.91 min; [M+H]⁺=288.10.

A.1.38.1 2-(2-Methylbenzofuran-7-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure E described above, using tert-butyl (2-(2-methylbenzofuran-7-yl)ethyl)carbamate, and obtained as a pale yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.54 min; [M+H]⁺=176.32.

A.1.38.2 Tert-butyl (2-(2-methylbenzofuran-7-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure C described above, using 7-bromo-2-methyl-1-benzofuran, and obtained as a yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.93 min; [M+H]⁺=276.11.

A.1.39. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(1,5-dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(1,5-dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.83 min; [M+H]⁺=302.15.

A.1.39.1 2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure E described above, using tert-butyl (2-(1,5-dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate, and obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.50 min; [M+H]⁺=231.26.

A.1.39.2 Tert-butyl (2-(1,5-dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure C described above, using 4-bromo-1,5-dimethyl-1H-indazole, and obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.87 min; [M+H]⁺=290.16.

A.1.40. N-(2-(2-Aminonaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)-6-chloropyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 1-(2-aminoethyl)naphthalen-2-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a brown solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.75 min; [M+H]⁺=299.07.

A.1.40.1 1-(2-Aminoethyl)naphthalen-2-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure E described above, using tert-butyl (2-(2-aminonaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate, and obtained as a black solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.48 min; [M+H]⁺=187.21.

A.1.40.2 Tert-butyl (2-(2-aminonaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure C described above, using 1-bromonaphtalen-2-amine, and obtained as a black solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.77 min; [M+H]⁺=287.17.

A.1.41. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(6-methylisoquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(6-methylisoquinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as an orange solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.56 min; [M+H]⁺=299.05.

A.1.41.1 2-(6-Methylisoquinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure E described above, using tert-butyl (2-(6-methylisoquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate, and obtained as a pale yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.30 min; [M+H]⁺=187.28.

A.1.41.2 Tert-butyl (2-(6-methylisoquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure C described above, using 5-bromo-6-methylisoquinoline, and obtained as a pale yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.62 min; [M+H]⁺=287.17.

A.1.42. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(1,2-dimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(1,2-dimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.90 min; [M+H]⁺=301.06.

A.1.42.1 2-(1,2-Dimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure B described above, using (E)-1,2-dimethyl-7-(2-nitrovinyl)-1H-indole, and obtained as a yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.57 min; [M+H]⁺=189.25.

A.1.42.2 (E)-1,2-Dimethyl-7-(2-nitrovinyl)-1H-indole

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure A described above, using 1,2-dimethyl-1H-indole-7-carbaldehyde, and obtained as an orange solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.91 min; [M+H]⁺=217.12.

A.1.43. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(2-(difluoromethyl)naphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(2-(difluoromethyl)naphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a pale yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.95 min; [M+H]⁺=334.03.

A.1.43.1 2-(2-(difluoromethyl)naphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure E described above, using tert-butyl (2-(2-(difluoromethyl)naphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate, and obtained as a pale yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.61 min; [M+H]⁺=222.11.

A.1.43.2 Tert-butyl (2-(6-methylisoquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure C described above, using tert-butyl (2-(2-(difluoromethyl)naphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate, and obtained as a deep yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.98 min; no ionization.

A.1.44. 1-(2-((6-Chloropyrimidin-4-yl)amino)ethyl)-2-naphthonitrile

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure E described above, using tert-butyl (6-chloropyrimidin-4-yl)(2-(2-cyanonaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate, and obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.88 min; [M+H]⁺=309.02.

A.1.44.1 Tert-butyl (6-chloropyrimidin-4-yl)(2-(2-cyanonaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate

Tert-butyl (2-(2-cyanonaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate (350 mg, 1.18 mmol) is dissolved in dry dioxane (6 mL). The solution is cooled down to 15° C., and sodium hydride (189 mg, 4.72 mmol) is added portionwise. After stirring at rt for 15 min, 4,6-dichloropyrimidine (440 mg, 2.95 mmol is added to the suspension at 15° C. The RM is heated up to 90° C. and stirred overnight. The RM is carefully quenched at 0° C. with water then extracted with EtOAc, the organic layer is washed with brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated. Purification by FC (Hept/EtOAc 10:0 to 7:3) affords the tuitle compound as a white solid (0.370 g, 77%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=1.08 min; [M+H]⁺=409.15.

A.1.44.2 Tert-butyl (2-(2-cyanonaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure C described above, using 1-bromonaphthalene-2-carbonitrile, and obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.92 min; [M+H]⁺=297.11.

A.1.45. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(7-methoxy-4-methylquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure F described above, using 2-(7-methoxy-4-methylquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, and obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.59 min; [M+H]⁺=329.05.

A.1.45.1 2-(7-Methoxy-4-methylquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure E described above, using tert-butyl (2-(7-methoxy-4-methylquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)carbamate, and obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.36 min; [M+H]⁺=217.15.

A.1.45.2 Tert-butyl (2-(7-methoxy-4-methylquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is prepared according to the general procedure C described above, using 8-bromo-7-methoxy-4-methylquinoline, and obtained as a yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.63 min; [M+H]⁺=317.14.

A.1.45.3 8-Bromo-7-methoxy-4-methylquinoline

To a stirred solution of 7-methoxy-4-methylquinoline (1.00 g, 5.77 mmol) in DCM (25 mL) is added NBS (1.23 g, 6.91 mmol). The resulting suspension is stirred for 3 d at RT. The RM is diluted with DCM and washed with saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ and brine, dried over MgSO₄ and then purified by FC to give the desired product as a yellow solid (1.118 g, 77%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.51 min; [M+H]⁺=252.00.

A.1.46. N-(2-(4-bromonaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)-6-iodopyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(4-bromonaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-diiodopyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.02 min; [M+H]⁺=453.95.

A.1.46.1. 2-(4-Bromonaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is obtained from (E)-1-bromo-4-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene, following the general procedure B. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.67 min; [M+H]⁺=250.24.

A.1.46.2. (E)-1-bromo-4-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene

The title compound is obtained from 4-bromo-1-naphthaldehyde, following the general procedure A. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.06 min; no ionization. ¹H NMR (400 MHz, d6-DMSO) δ: 8.84 (d, J=13.3 Hz, 1H), 8.39 (d, J=7.9 Hz, 1H), 8.28 (m, 2H), 8.02 (s, 2H), 7.81 (m, 2H).

A.1.47. 6-chloro-N-(2-(5-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(5-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.02 min; [M+H]⁺=302.16.

A.1.47.1. 2-(5-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is obtained from tert-butyl (2-(5-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate, following the general procedure E. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.61 min; [M+H]⁺=190.39.

A.1.47.2. Tert-butyl (2-(5-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is obtained from 1-bromo-5-fluoronaphthalene, following the general procedure C. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.05 min; [M+H—CH₃]⁺=275.24.

A.1.48. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(6-fluorobenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(6-fluorobenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.00 min; [M+H]⁺=308.11.

A.1.48.1. 2-(6-Fluorobenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is obtained from tert-butyl (2-(6-fluorobenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate, following the general procedure E. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.59 min; [M+H]⁺=196.27.

A.1.48.2. Tert-butyl (2-(6-fluorobenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is obtained from 4-bromo-6-fluorobenzo[b]thiophene, following the general procedure C. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.04 min; [M+H—CH₃]⁺=281.18.

A.1.48.3. 4-Bromo-6-fluorobenzo[b]thiophene

A mixture of 4-bromo-6-fluorobenzo[b]thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (500 mg, 1.82 mmol), copper(I) oxide (65 mg, 0.454 mmol) and DMF (9 mL) is heated at 140° C. overnight under N₂. It is then cooled to RT and filtered over Whatman filter, washing with EtOAc. The filtrate is washed twice with a solution of NH₄OH then the combined aqueous layers are extracted with EtOAc (2×). The combined organic layers are washed with additional water, then dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated to dryness. The residue is purified by FC (Hept:EtOAc 1:0 to 9:1) to afford the product as a white solid (254 mg, 60%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.02 min; no ionization.

A.1.49. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(3-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(3-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.02 min; [M+H]⁺=302.19.

A.1.49.1. 2-(3-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is obtained from (E)-3-fluoro-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene, following the general procedure B. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.60 min; [M+H]⁺=190.34.

A.1.49.2. (E)-3-fluoro-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene

The title compound is obtained from 3-fluoronaphthalene-1-carbaldehyde, following the general procedure A. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.60 min; [M+H]⁺=190.34.

A.1.50. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(5-methylnaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(5-methylnaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.04 min; [M+H]⁺=298.18.

A.1.50.1. 2-(5-Methylnaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is obtained from tert-butyl (2-(5-methylnaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate, following the general procedure E. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.63 min; [M+H]⁺=186.43.

A.1.50.2. Tert-butyl (2-(5-methylnaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is obtained from 1-bromo-5-methylnaphthalene, following the general procedure C. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.07 min; [M+H—CH₃]+=271.31.

A.1.51. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(5-methoxybenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(5-methoxybenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.00 min; [M+H]⁺=320.14.

A.1.51.1. 2-(5-Methoxybenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is obtained from tert-butyl (2-(5-methoxybenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate, following the general procedure E. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.60 min; [M+H]⁺=208.26.

A.1.51.2. Tert-butyl (2-(5-methoxybenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is obtained from 4-bromo-5-methoxybenzo[b]thiophene, following the general procedure C. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.04 min; [M+H]⁺=308.19.

A.1.51.3. 4-Bromo-5-methoxybenzo[b]thiophene

Iodomethane (0.083 mL, 1.32 mmol) is added to a RT solution of 4-bromo-1-benzothiophen-5-ol (300 mg, 1.26 mmol) and K₂CO₃ (261 mg, 1.89 mmol) in DMF (5 mL). The RM is stirred at 60° C. for 1 h, then cooled to RT and partitioned between water and EtOAc. The organic extracts are washed with brine, dried (MgSO₄), and concentrated under reduced pressure, affording the title compound as a yellow oil (330 mg, quant.). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.99 min; no ionization.

A.1.52. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(5-ethoxybenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(5-ethoxybenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.05 min; [M+H]⁺=334.18.

A.1.52.1. 2-(5-Ethoxybenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is obtained from tert-butyl (2-(5-ethoxybenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate, following the general procedure E. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.66 min; [M+H]⁺=222.27.

A.1.52.2. Tert-butyl (2-(5-ethoxybenzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is obtained from 4-bromo-5-ethoxybenzo[b]thiophene, following the general procedure C. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.08 min; [M+H]⁺=321.95.

A.1.52.3. 4-Bromo-5-ethoxybenzo[b]thiophene

Iodoethane (0.107 mL, 1.32 mmol) is added to a RT solution of 4-bromo-1-benzothiophen-5-ol (300 mg, 1.26 mmol) and K₂CO₃ (261 mg, 1.89 mmol) in DMF (5 mL). The RM is stirred at 60° C. overnight, then cooled to RT and partitioned between water and EtOAc. The organic extracts are washed with brine, dried (MgSO₄), and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by FC (heptane/EtOAc, from 1:0 to 7:3), affording the title compound as a colorless oil (302 mg, 93%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.04 min; no ionization.

A.1.53. N-(2-(2-bromo-4-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)-6-iodopyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(2-bromo-4-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-diiodopyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.04 min; [M+H]⁺=471.89.

A.1.53.1. 2-(2-Bromo-4-fluoronaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is obtained from (E)-2-bromo-4-fluoro-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene, following the general procedure B. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.69 min; [M+H]⁺=268.18.

A.1.53.2. (E)-2-Bromo-4-fluoro-1-(2-nitrovinyl)naphthalene

The title compound is obtained from 2-bromo-4-fluoro-1-naphtaldehyde, following the general procedure A. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.09 min; no ionization. ¹H NMR (400 MHz, d6-DMSO) δ: 8.76 (d, J=13.3 Hz, 1H), 8.42 (m, 2H), 8.35 (d, J=13.3 Hz, 1H), 8.16-8.18 (m, 1H), 7.80-7.83 (m, 2H).

A.1.54. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(6-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(6-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.96 min; [M+H]⁺=317.21.

A.1.54.1. 2-(6-Methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is obtained from tert-butyl (2-(6-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)carbamate, following the general procedure E. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.51 min; no ionization.

A.1.54.2. Tert-butyl (2-(6-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is obtained from 7-bromo-6-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indole following the general procedure C. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.01 min; [M+H]⁺=305.24.

A.1.54.3. 7-Bromo-6-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indole

A solution of 7-bromo-6-methoxy-1H-indole (1275 mg, 3.64 mmol) in DMF (20 mL) is cooled at 0° C. Sodium hydride (60% suspension in oil, 262 mg, 6.56 mmol) is added portionwise, and the RM is stirred at RT for 45 min. Iodomethane (0.454 mL, 7.29 mmol) is added dropwise, and the RM is stirred at RT overnight. It is then quenched carefully by pouring it into sat. aq. NH₄Cl, and extracted with DCM (3×). The combined organic extracts are washed with brine dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated under vacuum. The residue is purified by FC (Hept:EtOAc 1:0 to 17:3), affording the title compound as yellow oil (260 mg, 55%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.96 min; [M+H]⁺=240.15.

A.1.54.4. 7-Bromo-6-methoxy-1H-indole

2-Bromo-1-methoxy-3-nitrobenzene (2500 mg, 10.8 mmol) is dissolved in THF (200 mL) and cooled at −78° C. Vinylmagnesium bromide (1M in THF, 37.7 mL, 37.7 mmol) is added dropwise to the mixture. The reaction is stirred at −78° C. overnight allowing the mixture to reach RT. 50 mL of a saturated NH₄Cl solution is slowly added. The mixture is diluted with water and extracted with DCM. The organic layer is dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated. The residue is purified by FC (Hept:DCM 1:0 to 1:1), affording the title compound as a pale orange solid (443 mg, 18%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.86 min; no ionization.

A.1.55. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.96 min; [M+H]⁺=317.21.

A.1.55.1. 2-(5-Methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is obtained from tert-butyl (2-(5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate, following the general procedure E. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.56 min; [M+H]⁺=205.34.

A.1.55.2. Tert-butyl (2-(5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is obtained from 4-bromo-5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indole following the general procedure C. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.00 min; [M+H]⁺=305.23.

A.1.55.3. 4-Bromo-5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indole

NaH (60% in oil, 75.6 mg, 3.15 mmol) is added to a RT solution of 4-bromo-5-methoxy-1H-indole (500 mg, 2.1 mmol) in DMF (5 mL). The RM is stirred at RT for 20 min and iodomethane (0.145 mL, 2.31 mmol) is added. The RM is then stirred overnight at RT. Water is added, and the mixture is extracted twice with EtOAc. Combined organic layers are washed with brine, dried (MgSO₄), filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by FC (heptane:EtOAc, 1:0 to 7:3), affording the title compound as a beige solid (426 mg, 84%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.94 min; [M+H]⁺=241.91.

A.1.56. 6-Chloro-N-(2-(1,5-dimethyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(1,5-dimethyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 4,6-dichloropyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.98 min; [M+H]⁺=301.19.

A.1.56.1. 2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

The title compound is obtained from tert-butyl (2-(1,5-dimethyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate, following the general procedure E. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.58 min; [M+H]⁺=189.37.

A.1.56.2. Tert-butyl (2-(1,5-dimethyl-1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is obtained from 4-bromo-1,5-dimethyl-1H-indole following the general procedure C. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.03 min; [M+H]⁺=289.25.

A.1.56.3. 4-Bromo-1,5-dimethyl-1H-indole

NaH (60% in oil, 81.4 mg, 3.39 mmol) is added to a RT solution of 4-bromo-5-methyl-1H-indole (500 mg, 2.26 mmol) in DMF (5 mL). It is stirred at RT for 20 min and iodomethane (0.156 mL, 2.49 mmol) is added. The RM is stirred at RT for 3 h. Water is added, and the mixture is extracted twice with EtOAc. Combined organic layers are washed with brine, dried (MgSO₄), filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by FC (heptane:EtOAc, 1:0 to 7:3), affording the title compound as a beige solid (464 mg, 92%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.02 min; [M+H]⁺=226.2.

A.1.57. N-(2-(4-bromo-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)-6-iodopyrimidin-4-amine

The title compound is obtained from 2-(4-bromo-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethan-1-amine and 4,6-diiodopyrimidine, following the general procedure F. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.98 min; [M+H]⁺=456.94.

A.1.57.1. 2-(4-Bromo-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)ethan-1-amine

The title compound is obtained from (E)-4-bromo-1-methyl-7-(2-nitrovinyl)-1H-indole, following the general procedure B. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.64 min; [M+H]⁺=253.15.

A.1.57.2. (E)-4-Bromo-1-methyl-7-(2-nitrovinyl)-1H-indole

The title compound is obtained from 4-bromo-1-methyl-1H-indole-7-carbaldehyde, following the general procedure A. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.03 min; [M+H]⁺=281.04.

A.1.57.3. 4-Bromo-1-methyl-1H-indole-7-carbaldehyde

Into an ice-cold solution of methyl 4-bromo-1-methyl-1H-indole-7-carboxylate (1009 mg, 3.61 mmol) in THF (15 mL) is added dropwise a solution of LiAIH4 (2M in THF, 2.17 mL, 4.34 mmol), and the RM is stirred for 2 h allowing the temperature to reach RT. The RM is cooled again at 0° C., 165 μL of water, 0.330 mL of 10% aqueous sodium hydroxide solution and 0.495 mL of water are added dropwise one after another and the RM is stirred for 30 min at RT. It is filtered over Celite, rinsing with DCM and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is taken up in THF (40 mL), MnO₂ (3769 mg, 43.4 mmol) is added portionwise and the RM is stirred at RT for 24 h. It is then filtered over Celite, the cake is rinsed with EtOAc and the filtrate is concentrated under reduced pressure, affording the title compound as an orange oil (844 mg, 98%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.94 min; [M+H]⁺=238.12.

A.1.58. 1-(2-((6-chloropyrimidin-4-yl)amino)ethyl)-8-fluoro-5-methoxy-2-naphthonitrile

Tert-butyl (6-chloropyrimidin-4-yl)(2-(2-cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate (83 mg, 0.174 mmol) is suspended in HCl (4N in dioxane, 4.35 mL, 17.4 mmol) and stirred overnight at 60° C. The mixture is evaporated under vacuum and well dried under high vacuum, affording the title compound as a white solid 56 mg, 90%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.97 min; [M+H]⁺=357.18.

A.1.58.1. Tert-butyl (6-chloropyrimidin-4-yl)(2-(2-cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate

To a solution of tert-butyl (2-(2-cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate (100 mg, 0.267 mmol) in dioxane (6 mL) at RT is added portionwise NaH (60% suspension in oil, 48.1 mg, 1.2 mmol). The RM is stirred at RT for 5 min, then 4-chloro-6-fluoropyrimidine (85.7 mg, 0.614 mmol) is added portionwise and the RM is refluxed for 20 h. Under ice bath cooling and N₂ the mixture is carefully quenched by dropwise addition of 5 mL water. The main part of the dioxane is removed under vacuum, then it is extracted once with DCM then twice with EtOAc. The organic layer is washed with 10 mL of brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated. The residue is purified by FC (Hept/DCM 1:0 to 0:1), affording the title compound as a white solid (83 mg, 66%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.32 min; [M+H]⁺=457.26.

A.1.58.2. Tert-butyl (2-(2-cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)carbamate

A mixture of 2-cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl trifluoromethanesulfonate (677 mg, 1.86 mmol), potassium tert-butyl N-[2-(trifluoroboranuidyl)ethyl]carbamate (514 mg, 2.05 mmol), and Cs₂CO₃ (1 M, 5.6 mL, 5.58 mmol) in toluene (20 mL) is degassed with N₂, then [1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene]dichloropalladium(II), complex with dichloromethane (152 mg, 0.186 mmol) is added and the RM is refluxed for 2 h. It is allowed to cool to RT, water and EtOAc are added, and the resulting mixture is filtered, rinsed with EtOAc and extracted. The combined organic layers are dried over MgSO₄, filtered, and concentrated to dryness under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by FC (Hept:EtOAc 1:0 to 1:1), affording the title compound as a beige solid (410 mg, 64%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.05 min; [M-tBu]⁺=289.21.

A.1.58.3. 2-Cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl trifluoromethanesulfonate

To a solution of 8-fluoro-1-hydroxy-5-methoxy-2-naphthonitrile (200 mg, 0.783 mmol) and TEA (0.284 mL, 2.04 mmol) in DCM (5 mL) is added portionwise at RT N-phenyl-bis(trifluoromethanesulfonimide) (485 mg, 1.33 mmol). The RM is stirred overnight at RT, then concentrated under reduced pressure and purified by FC (Hept:DCM 1:0 to 1:1). The title compound is obtained as a white solid (275 mg, 100%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.10 min; [M+CH₃CN+H]⁺=391.27.

A.1.58.4. 8-Fluoro-1-hydroxy-5-methoxy-2-naphthonitrile

At RT under N2, 8-fluoro-1-hydroxy-5-methoxy-2-naphthaldehyde (453 mg, 1.81 mmol) is dissolved in DMF (5 mL), then hydroxylamine hydrochloride (152 mg, 2.16 mmol) is added and the mixture is stirred at RT for 1 h. Acetyl chloride (0.158 mL, 2.19 mmol) is then added and the RM is heated at 100° C. overnight. After cooling to RT, the mixture is treated with 25 mL of water and stirred for 1 h. It is then extracted once with DCM and twice with EtOAc, dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated. The residue is purified by FC (Hept:EtOAc 1:0 to 1:1) to afford the title compound as a brown solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.89 min; no ionization. ¹H NMR (400 MHz, CDCl₃) δ: 8.85 (m, 1H), 8.17 (dd, J1=2.2 Hz, J2=8.9 Hz, 1H), 7.73 (m, 1H), 7.32 (dd, J1=8.7 Hz, J2=10.0 Hz, 1H), 6.97 (dd, J1=3.8 Hz, J2=8.7 Hz, 1H), 4.06 (s, 3H).

A.1.58.5. 8-Fluoro-1-hydroxy-5-methoxy-2-naphthaldehyde

To (Z)-8-fluoro-2-(hydroxymethylene)-5-methoxy-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one (450 mg, 2.03 mmol) in dioxane (10 mL) is added DDQ (506 mg, 2.23 mmol) in one portion. The RM is refluxed for 1 h. After cooling, the mixture is treated with sat. NaHCO₃ and extracted with EtOAc, dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated, to yield the title compound as an orange solid (450 mg, 100%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.96 min; [M+H]⁺=221.35.

A.1.58.6. (Z)-8-Fluoro-2-(hydroxymethylene)-5-methoxy-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one

A suspension of NaH (60% in oil, 352 mg, 8.81 mmol) in dry THF (16 mL) under nitrogen is stirred and cooled in an ice-acetone bath, whilst ethyl formate (1.22 mL, 14.7 mmol) is added to it. The mixture is stirred below −5° C. for 20 min after which 8-fluoro-5-methoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-1-one (500 mg, 2.45 mmol) is added in one portion. The RM is allowed to warm to RT. Methanol (1 mL) and then water (1 mL) are added dropwise at 0° C. The mixture is treated with 10 mL of 2N HCl and the THF is partially evaporated under reduced pressure. Then the mixture is extracted with DCM and the combined extracts are dried (MgSO₄), filtered and evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by FC (Hept:DCM 100:0 to 75:25) the desired product as a yellow solid (450 mg, 83%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.90 min; [M+H]⁺=223.37.

A.2. Synthesis of boronic acid derivatives of formula (4) A.2.1. 3-Ethoxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylic Acid

Lithium diisopropylamide (2.0 M in THF/hexanes, 25 mL, 49.6 mmol) is added dropwise to a solution of 3-ethoxythiophene-2-carboxylic acid (4.00 g, 22.5 mmol) in dry THF (130 mL) at −78° C. The resulting RM is stirred for 30 min at −78° C. then at 0° C. for 10 min. Back at −78° C., a solution of 2-isopropoxy-4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolane (9.38 mL, 45.1 mmol) in dry THF (30 mL) is added dropwise and the RM is slowly allowed to warm to RT overnight. HCl 2N (50 mL) is added dropwise at 0° C., then the THF is removed in vacuo and the RM is extracted twice with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with brine, dried over MgSO₄ and the solvent is removed. The crude product is purified by FC (Hept/DCM/EtOAc 1:0:0 to 0:9:1), affording the title compound as a white solid (5.26 g, 78%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.48 min; [M+H]⁺=217.07 (boronic acid, from hydrolysis of the pinacol ester on the LC-MS-column).

A.2.2. 5-(2-Ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)-1H-tetrazole

A mixture of 2-ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzonitrile (500 mg, 1.83 mmol), azidotributyltin(IV) (0.768 mL, 2.75 mmol), and dry toluene (4 mL) is heated at 180° C. for 1 h under MW irradiation. The RM is cooled to RT, treated with HCl 0.1N and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer is dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated under vacuum. The residue is purified via FC (Heptane:EtOAc 100:0 to 10:90), affording the title compound as a white solid (135 mg, 23%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.94 min; [M+H]⁺=317.26.

A.2.2.1. 2-Ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzonitrile

A solution of 2-hydroxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzonitrile (1.50 g, 6.12 mmol), K₂CO₃ (1.69 g, 12.2 mmol) in DMF (4 mL) and iodoethane (0.596 mL, 7.34 mmol) is heated at 120° C. for 30 min. The RM is cooled down to RT, partitioned between DCM and 1N NaHCO₃. The aqueous layer is re-extracted with DCM, the combined organics are dried (MgSO₄), and concentrated under reduced pressure, affording the title compound as a beige solid (1.31 g, 78%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.06 min; [M+CH₃CN]⁺=315.26.

A.2.3. 2-(Difluoromethoxy)-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzoic Acid

To a solution of 4-bromo-2-(difluoromethoxy)benzoic acid (1.00 g, 3.56 mmol) in DMF (20 mL) are added at RT bis(pinacolato)diboron (1.355 g, 5.34 mmol), KOAc (1.047 g, 10.7 mmol) and 1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene dichloropalladium (11) (208 mg, 0.285 mmol). The RM is stirred at 100° C. for 17 h, then cooled to RT and filtered through a pad of celite, washing with EtOAC. The filtrate is washed with water and the aqueous layer is extracted (×2) with EtOAc. Organic layers are combined, washed with brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by FC eluting with DCM to afford the title compound as an orange solid (846 mg, 76%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.37 min; [M+H]⁺=313.11.

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of A.2.3. described above, the following boronic acid derivatives are synthesized, starting from the corresponding commercially available halides (see table 4).

TABLE 4 Boronic acid derivatives A.2.4.-A.2.6. MS Data t_(R) [min] m/z No. Compound (LC-MS) [M + H]⁺ A.2.4. 2-Cyclobutoxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl- 0.91 (A) 319.11 1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzoic acid A.2.5. 1-Methyl-6-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2- 0.77 (A) 275.27 dioxaborolan-2-yl)-1,2-dihydro-3H- indazol-3-one A.2.6. 5-(4-(4,4,5,5-Tetramethyl-1,3,2- 0.85 (A) 288.17 dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)isoxazol-3-ol

A.2.7. 2-Fluoro-6-propyl-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzoic Acid

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.3., starting with 4-bromo-2-fluoro-6-propylbenzoic acid. LC-MS D: t_(R)=0.48 min; [M−H]⁺=307.11.

A.2.7.1. 4-Bromo-2-fluoro-6-propylbenzoic Acid

To a solution of 4-bromo-2,6-difluorobenzoic acid (5.00 g, 21.1 mmol) in THF (50 mL) at 0° C. is added dropwise over 30 min n-propylmagnesium bromide (2M in THF, 21.6 mL, 43.2 mmol). The RM is allowed to reach RT and stirred for 17 h, then quenched carefully at 0° C. with MeOH (10 mL). After stirring for 5 min, the solvent is removed under reduced pressure. The residue is partitioned between EtOAc and 2N HCl. The aqueous phase is re-extracted with EtOAc (2×). The combined org. phases are washed with water, brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated. The residue is purified by FC (heptane/EtOAc 100:0 to 70:30) to afford the title compound as a white solid (4.45 g, 81%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.84 min; no ionization.

A.2.8. 5-(4,4,5,5-Tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)thiophene-2-carboxylic Acid

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.1., starting with 3-(trifluoromethyl)thiophene-2-carboxylic acid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.59 min; no ionization.

A.2.8.1. 3-(Trifluoromethyl)thiophene-2-carboxylic Acid

To a −78° C. solution of 3-(trifluoromethyl)thiophene (0.4 mL, 3.68 mmol) in dry THF (10 mL) is added dropwise a solution of butyllithium (1.38M in hexane, 2.93 mL, 4.05 mmol) and the RM is stirred for 30 min. The RM is then poured over an excess of freshly crushed dry ice carbon dioxide. Once the RM is back at RT, HCl 1N is added until pH <3 and the RM is extracted with DCM (3×). The organic layer is dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated under vacuum, affording the title compound as a pale yellow solid (0.72 g, quantitative). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.69 min; no ionization.

A.2.9. 2-(2-Ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenoxy)acetic Acid

A solution of ethyl 2-(2-ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenoxy)acetate (1.285 g, 3.82 mmol) in EtOH (15 mL) is treated with NaOH 10% (7.64 mL, 19.1 mmol) and the RM is stirred at 50° C. for 30 min. The RM is cooled to RT and diluted with EtOAc. HCl 2N (15 mL) is added to reach acidic pH (<1). The aqueous layer is extracted twice with EtOAc. The resulting organic phase is dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated, affording the title compound as an orange paste. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.80 min; [M+H]⁺=323.12.

A.2.9.1. Ethyl 2-(2-ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenoxy)acetate

A solution of 2-ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenol (3.47 g, 12.5 mmol) in DMF (50 mL) is treated successively with cesium carbonate (6.10 g, 18.7 mmol) and ethyl bromoacetate (1.48 mL, 13.1 mmol). The RM is stirred at RT for 1 h. Water is added, and the RM is extracted with Et₂O (×3). The combined organic layers are then washed successively with water (×2) and brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered, and concentrated under reduced pressure to afford the pure product as a colorless oil (1.46 g, 77%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.94 min; [M+H]⁺=351.18.

A.2.10. (2-Ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)glycine

To a solution of methyl (2-ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)glycinate (207 mg, 0.61 mmol) in THF/H₂O (4:1) (5 mL) is added LiOH.H₂O (51 mg, 1.21 mmol) and the RM is stirred at RT for 2 h. The RM is treated with HCl 1N (1 mL) and extracted with EtOAc, dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated, affording the title compound as a brown oil (0.151 g, 78%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.82 min; [M+H]⁺=322.07.

A.2.10.1. Methyl (2-ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)glycinate

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.3., starting with methyl (4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)glycinate. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.93 min; [M+H]⁺=336.28.

A.2.10.2. Methyl (4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)glycinate

To a solution of 4-bromo-2-ethoxyaniline (0.60 g, 2.64 mmol) in DMF (2.5 mL) is added DiPEA (0.673 mL, 3.96 mmol) followed by methyl bromoacetate (0.275 mL, 2.9 mmol). The RM is stirred at 90° C. for 1 h in the MW apparatus. The DMF is evaporated under high vacuum and the residue is purified by FC, eluting with Hept/EtOAc 1:0 to 17:3 affording the title compound as a dark red oil (0.71 g, 94%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.89 min; [M+H]⁺=288.08.

A.2.11. 3-(2-Ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5(4H)-one

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.3., starting with 3-(4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5(4H)-one. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.89 min; [M+H]⁺=333.06.

A.2.11.1. 3-(4-Bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5(4H)-one

A solution of 4-bromo-2-ethoxy-N′-hydroxybenzimidamide (1.395 g, 5.38 mmol), 1,1′-carbonyldiimidazole (1.31 g, 8.08 mmol) and 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (1.23 mL, 8.08 mmol) in dioxane (20 mL) is stirred at 90° C. for 4 h 30 min. Once at RT, the product precipitated upon addition of HCl 1M. Dioxane is partially evaporated via N₂ stream prior to filtering off the solid under vacuum, washing with water. The title compound is obtained as a white solid (1.375 g, 90%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.81 min, [M+MeCN]⁺=325.89.

A.2.11.2. 4-Bromo-2-ethoxy-N′-hydroxybenzimidamide

A suspension of 4-bromo-2-ethoxybenzonitrile (1.50 g, 6.5 mmol), hydroxylamine hydrochloride (913 mg, 13 mmol) and NaHCO₃ (1.365 g, 16.3 mmol) in water (1.32 mL) and EtOH (26.6 mL) is stirred in a sealed tube at 90° C. for 3 h. Once at RT, the product precipitated from the RM upon addition of water. The solid is filtered off under high vacuum, washing with water and some Et₂O. A first crop of pure title compound (947 mg) was thus obtained as white solid. The filtrate is extracted with AcOEt. The organic layer is then washed twice with brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated. The residue is purified by FC (hept/AcOEt 5:5) to yield another crop of the pure title compound as a white solid (448 mg), merged with the first batch from precipitation. The title compound is obtained as a white solid (1.395 g, 83%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.53 min, [M+H]⁺=259.03.

A.2.12. 3-(2-Ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenoxy)propanoic Acid

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.3., starting with 3-(4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenoxy)propanoic acid. LC-MS D: t_(R)=0.45 min; [M−H]⁺=335.18.

A.2.12.1. 3-(4-Bromo-2-ethoxyphenoxy)propanoic Acid

A MW vial is charged with 4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenol (1300 mg, 5.98 mmol), H₂O (5 mL), NaOH 32% (1.332 mL, 14.38 mmol) and 3-chloropropionic acid (674 mg, 6.08 mmol). It is sealed and irradiated at 120° C. The RM is diluted in water and pH is decreased to pH9 with HCl 2N then is extracted twice with EtOAc. The basic aqueous layer is then acidified to pH2 and extracted twice with EtOAc, the combined organic extracts are washed with water, brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and evaporated to dryness, yielding the title compound as a white powder (0.448 g, 56%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.89 min; [M+H]⁺=289.10.

A.2.13. Methyl (E)-3-(3-ethoxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)thiophen-2-yl)acrylate

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.1., starting with methyl (E)-3-(3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)acrylate. LC-MS A: t_(R)=1.02 min; [M+H]⁺=339.14.

A.2.13.1. Methyl (E)-3-(3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)acrylate

A suspension of 3-ethoxythiophene-2-carbaldehyde (2.90 g, 18.6 mmol), methyl bromoacetate (3.07 mL, 33.4 mmol), and triphenylphosphine (7.305 g, 27.8 mmol) in aq saturated NaHCO₃ (100 mL) is stirred at RT for 5 h. THF (30 mL) is added and the RM is stirred overnight at RT. It is then extracted twice with DCM. The combined organic layers are dried over MgSO₄, filtered, and concentrated under vacuum. The crude is purified by FC (Hept/EtOAc 9:1) to afford the title compound as a dark orange oil (2.9 g, 100%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.69 min; [M+MeCN]⁺=198.26.

A.2.14. 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)thiophen-2-yl)propanoic Acid

To a solution of methyl (E)-3-(3-ethoxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)thiophen-2-yl)acrylate [A.2.13.] (250 mg, 0.786 mmol) in MeOH (15 mL) is added Pd/C 5% wet (50 mg). Then the vessel is inertized with N₂ and flushed with H₂. The RM is placed in a autoclave and it is stirred overnight at RT under 4 Bar of H₂, then for Id at 50° C. under 4 bar of H₂. After filtration on whatman filter, NaOH 10% (1.18 mL, 11.8 mmol) is added and the RM is stirred for 1 h at RT. It is then treated with HCl 2N until pH <1 and extracted twice with EtOAc. The organic layer is dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated, to afford the title compound as a dark yellow oil (287 mg, 74%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.86 min; [M+H]⁺=327.09.

A.2.15. 3-Ethoxy-4-(4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)cyclobut-3-ene-1,2-dione

3-Ethoxy-4-(tributylstannyl)cyclobut-3-ene-1,2-dione (335 mg, 0.807 mmol) and 4-iodophenylboronic acid, pinacol ester (298 mg, 0.904 mmol) are dissolved in DMF (4 mL) with N₂ bubbling for 5 min. Trans-Benzyl(chloro)bis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(II) (36.7 mg, 0.0484 mmol) and CuI (15.4 mg, 0.0807 mmol) are added and the RM is stirred at RT for 3 h., then filtered over a microglass filter, concentrated under vacuum and purified by FC (H:EtOAc 100:0 to 80:20) to obtain the title compound as a yellow solid (127 mg, 48%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.97 min; [M+MeCN]+=370.07.

A.2.16. 3-(3-Methoxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)thiophen-2-yl)oxetan-3-ol

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.1., starting with 3-(3-methoxythiophen-2-yl)oxetan-3-ol. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.78 min; [M−H2O]+=295.12.

A.2.16.1. 3-(3-Methoxythiophen-2-yl)oxetan-3-ol

To a stirred solution of 3-methoxythiophene (1.00 g, 8.58 mmol) and N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (1.55 mL, 10.3 mmol) in Et₂O (30 mL) is added butyllithium (1.6M in Hexane, 6.4 mL, 10.3 mmol) dropwise at 0° C. The RM is stirred at RT for 30 min, then 3-oxetanone (0.761 mL, 12.9 mmol) is added dropwise and the RM is stirred at RT for 35 min, then diluted with water, the aqueous layer is extracted three times with EtOAc and the combined organic layers are dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by FC (Hept to Hept/EtOAc 8:2) to give the title compound as a light-yellow oil (1.123 g, 70%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.53 min; [M−H₂O]⁺=169.04.

A.2.17. Methyl 2-(3-ethoxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)thiophen-2-yl)acetate

A suspension of methyl 2-(3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)acetate (815 mg, 4.07 mmol), bis(pinacolato)diboron (633 mg, 2.44 mmol), (1,5-cyclooctadiene)(methoxy)iridium(I) dimer (28.9 mg, 0.0437 mmol) and 4,4′-di-tert-butyl-2,2′-dipyridyl (26.8 mg, 0.0999 mmol) in THF (19.3 mL) is degassed with a nitrogen stream for 15 min and then stirred at 80° C. overnight. The RM is concentrated under reduced pressure and the residue is purified by FC (Hept to Hept/EtOAc 9:1) to afford the title compound as a colourless oil which crystallizes upon standing. LC-MS A: t_(R)=1.03 min; [M+H]⁺=327.14.

A.2.17.1. Methyl 2-(3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)acetate

Silver benzoate (1800 mg, 7.78 mmol) is added portionwise to a solution of 2-diazo-1-(3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)ethan-1-one (2025 mg, 10.3 mmol) and TEA (4.31 mL, 31 mmol) in MeOH (52.7 mL) and the RM is stirred at RT for 2 h. It is then diluted with EtOAc and filtered over celite. The filtrate is washed twice with sat. aq. NaHCO₃ and once with brine. The organic layer is dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated. The residue is purified by FC (Hept to Hept/EtOAc 95:5) to yield the title compound as a light yellow oil (817 mg, 40%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.86 min, [M+H]⁺=201.14.

A.2.17.2. 2-Diazo-1-(3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)ethan-1-one

A solution of 3-ethoxythiophene-2-carboxylicacid (2500 mg, 14.1 mmol) in DCM (120 mL) is treated with thionyl chloride (1.56 mL, 21.1 mmol), dropwise. The RM is stirred at RT overnight, it is then concentrated in vacuo, and the residue is dissolved in MeCN (80 mL). TEA (2.2 mL, 15.8 mmol) is added dropwise and the solution is cooled down to 0° C. (Trimethylsilyl)diazomethane (2M solution, 15 mL, 30 mmol) is added dropwise and the RM is stirred at RT for 2 d. It is then carefully quenched by dropwise addition of AcOH, until no more bubbling is observed. The RM is then concentrated and the residue is partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is then washed with sat. aq. NaHCO₃ and with brine, dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated. The residue is purified by FC (Hept to Hept/EtOAc 8:2) to yield the title compound as an intense yellow solid (2.028 g, 73%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.78 min, [M+H]⁺=197.15.

A.2.18. Ethyl 2-((2-ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)amino)-2-oxoacetate

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.3., starting with ethyl 2-((4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)amino)-2-oxoacetate. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.98 min; [M+H]⁺=364.21.

A.2.18.1. Ethyl 2-((4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)amino)-2-oxoacetate

To a solution of 4-bromo-2-ethoxyaniline (1.10 g, 4.84 mmol) in DCM (35 mL) is added Et₃N (0.748 mL, 5.32 mmol) at RT. The RM is cooled to 0° C. and ethyl oxalyl chloride (0.61 mL, 5.32 mmol) is added dropwise. The RM is stirred for 30 min at 0° C. then allowed to warm to RT and stirred for 30 min. The RM is partitioned between ethyl acetate and saturated aqueous solution of NaHCO₃. The two layers are separated and the organic layers washed with water, brine then dried over MgSO₄, filtered and solvent removed under vacuo, affording the title compound as a brown solid (1.52 g, 99%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.92 min; [M+MeCN]⁺=316.04.

A.2.19. 2-Butoxy-6-fluoro-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzoic Acid

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.3., starting with 4-bromo-2-butoxy-6-fluorobenzoic acid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.92 min; [M+H]=339.21.

A.2.19.1. 4-Bromo-2-butoxy-6-fluorobenzoic acid

Methyl 4-bromo-2-butoxy-6-fluorobenzoate (1246 mg, 3.94 mmol) is dissolved in EtOH (15 mL). NaOH 32% (1.82 mL, 19.7 mmol) is added and the RM is heated up to 60° C. for 1 h. it is then cooled to RT and diluted with EtOAc. HCl 2N (10 mL) is added to reach acidic pH (<2). The aq. layer is extracted twice with EtOAc. The resulting organic phase is dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated, affording the title compound as a white solid. LC-MS D: t_(R)=0.52 min; [M−H]⁺=290.89.

A.2.19.2. Methyl 4-bromo-2-butoxy-6-fluorobenzoate

To a solution of methyl 4-bromo-2-fluoro-6-hydroxybenzoate (1.00 g, 4.02 mmol) in DMF (10 mL), is added Cs₂CO₃ (2.62 g, 8.03 mmol) followed by 1-iodobutane (0.685 mL, 6.02 mmol). The RM is stirred at 120° C. for 2 h in the MW. The RM is concentrated under reduced pressure, the residue is partitioned between DCM and water. The aqueous layer is re-extracted with DCM, the combined organics are dried (MgSO₄), and concentrated under reduced pressure. Purification by FC (Hept/EtOAc 1:0 to 19:1) affords the title compound as a colourless oil (1.24 g, 99%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.98 min; [M+H]⁺=306.84.

A.2.20. 2-(2-Ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)acetic Acid

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.3., starting with 2-(4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)acetic acid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.91 min; [M+H]⁺=307.27.

A.2.20.1. 2-(4-Bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)acetic Acid

Ethyl 2-(4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)acetate (4538 mg, 16.6 mmol) is dissolved in ethanol (30 mL), then NaOH 10% (27.7 mL, 73.1 mmol) is added and the RM is stirred overnight at RT. It is then treated by dropwise addition of HCl 37% (6.37 mL, 76.3 mmol), extracted with 60 mL DCM then twice with 30 mL of EtOAc, dried over MgSO₄ and evaporated under vacuum, affording the title compound as a pale yellow solid (2.5 g, 100%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.84 min; [M+H]⁺=258.68.

A.2.20.2. Ethyl 2-(4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)acetate

To 4-bromo-2-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (2800 mg, 11.9 mmol) in DMF (28 mL) is added cesium carbonate (7749 mg, 23.8 mmol) and iodoethane (3.35 mL, 41.6 mmol). The RM is stirred at RT for 3 h. Water is added and the mixture is extracted with Et₂O (3×). The combined organic layers are washed with water (2×), then dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated to dryness. The residue is purified by FC (Hept to Hept/EtOAc 9:1), affording the title compound as a colourless oil (3.02 g, 88%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.01 min; [M+H]⁺=287.01.

A.2.21. 2-(methylthio)-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzoic Acid

NaOH (2.77N, 16.6 mL, 45.9 mmol) is added to a solution of methyl 2-(methylthio)-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzoate (7680 mg, 22.9 mmol) in EtOH (30 mL). The RM is stirred overnight at RT, then concentrated under reduced pressure. HCl 25% is added until pH <2 and the mixture is extracted twice with DCM. Combined organic layers are dried (MgSO₄), filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure, affording the title compound as a white solid (6.37 g, 94%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.89 min; [M+H]⁺=295.18.

A.2.21.1. Methyl 2-(methylthio)-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzoate

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.3., starting with methyl 4-bromo-2-(methylthio)benzoate. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.06 min; [M+H]⁺=309.18.

A.2.21.2. Methyl 4-bromo-2-(methylthio)benzoate

To a solution of 4-bromo-2-sulfanylbenzoic acid (5000 mg, 19.5 mmol) in DMF (50 mL) is added portionwise cesium carbonate (13492 mg, 41 mmol), followed by iodomethane (3.07 mL, 48.8 mmol) and the RM is stirred at RT for 30 min. Water is added and the mixture is extracted with EtOAc (×3). The organic layer is then washed twice with water, dried over MgSO₄ and the solvent is removed under reduced pressure, affording the title compound as an orange oil (5.60 g, quant.). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.97 min; no ionization. ¹H NMR (400 MHz, d6-DMSO) δ: 7.82 (d, J=8.3 Hz, 1H), 7.42-7.48 (m, 2H), 3.83 (s, 3H), 2.46 (s, 3H).

B—Preparation of Examples

Compounds of Examples 1-134 listed in Table 5 below are prepared by applying either General H or G to the pyrimidine halide derivatives A.1.1.-A.1.45. coupled with commercially available boronic acid derivatives or with boronic acid derivatives A.2.1.-A.2.19.

TABLE 5 Examples 1-134 MS Data t_(R) [min] m/z Ex. Compound (LC-MS) [M + H]⁺ 1 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 434 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 2 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methyl-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.6 (C) 435.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 3 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.9 (C) 444.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 4 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 450.2 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 5 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 470.4 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 6 2-Ethoxy-4-[6-(2-naphthalen-1-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 0.9 (C) 414.3 4-yl]-benzoic acid 7 4-{6-[2-(2-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 1.0 (C) 492.2 4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid 8 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-[6-(2-naphthalen-1-yl-ethylamino)- 1.0 (C) 440 pyrimidin-4-yl]-benzoic acid 9 3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-naphthalen-1-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 1.1 (C) 420.3 4-yl]-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 10 5-{6-[2-(2-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 0.86 (A)  497.87 4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 11 4-{6-[2-(2,3-Dimethyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.0 (C) 442.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid (*1) 12 5-{6-[2-(2,3-Dimethyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.2 (C) 448.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 13 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-2-methyl-quinolin-5-yl)- 0.6 (C) 465 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 14 5-{6-[2-(2,3-Dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 480 pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 15 5-{6-[2-(7-Chloro-quinolin-8-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 1.0 (C) 455.2 4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 16 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.0(C) 428.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 17 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.1 (C) 454.4 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 18 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 434.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 19 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.9 (C) 432.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 20 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.1 (C) 458.3 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 21 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 438.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 22 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-[6-(2-quinolin-8-yl-ethylamino)- 0.8 (C) 441.2 pyrimidin-4-yl]-benzoic acid (*1) 23 3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-quinolin-8-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 0.8 (C) 421.4 4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 24 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.0 (C) 423 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 25 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.0 (C) 423 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 26 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.1 (C) 484.1 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 27 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 464.2 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 28 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(1,2,3-trimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)- 1.1 (C) 471.1 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 29 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1,2,3-trimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)- 1.1 (C) 451 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 30 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-isopropoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.2 (C) 478.1 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 31 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methyl-benzothiazol-7-yl)- 0.9 (C) 441.1 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 32 5-{6-[2-(2-Difluoromethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 486.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 33 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(7-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.7 (C) 451.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 34 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-2,3-dihydro-benzofuran- 0.9 (C) 442.1 4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2- carboxylic acid (*1) 35 5-[6-(2-Benzofuran-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-3- 1.0 (C) 410.4 ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 36 5-[6-(2-Benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]- 0.9 (C) 414 3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 37 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.0 (C) 423.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 38 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-propoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.87 (A)  478.07 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 39 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 0.9 (C) 409.2 4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 40 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(3-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 0.9 (C) 444.2 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 41 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(3-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 470.3 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 42 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(3-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 450 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 43 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)- 0.9 (C) 464.2 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 44 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)- 0.9 (C) 444.4 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 45 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(5-ethoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)- 1.0 (C) 458.4 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 46 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4- 1.0 (C) 409.4 yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 47 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.8 (C) 474 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid (*1) 48 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.8 (C) 458.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid (*1) 49 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.7 (C) 447.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid (*1) 50 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.7 (C) 447.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid (*1) 51 {4-[6-(2-Benzofuran-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]- 0.7 (C) 434 2-ethoxy-phenoxyl-acetic acid (*1) 52 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(2,5-dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 500.2 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 53 5-{6-[2-(2,5-Dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 480.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 54 4-{6-[2-(2,5-Dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.9 (C) 474.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid (*1) 55 (4-{6-[2-(2,5-Dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.8 (C) 504.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid (*1) 56 5-{6-[2-(1,2-Dimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 437.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 57 (4-{6-[2-(1,2-Dimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.8 (C) 461.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid (*1) 58 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 470.4 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 59 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.1 (C) 450.3 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 60 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 0.8 (C) 474.3 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid 61 4-{6-[2-(4-Chloro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 1.1 (C) 474.3 4-yl}-2-cyclobutoxy-benzoic acid 62 5-{6-[2-(4-Chloro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 1.2 (C) 454.2 4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 63 (4-{6-[2-(4-Chloro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 0.9 (C) 478.4 4-yl}-2-ethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid 64 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)- 0.7 (C) 471 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 65 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.6 (C) 451.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 66 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.5 (C) 475 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid (*1) 67 4-{6-[2-(2-Cyano-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 0.9 (C) 439.3 4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid (*1) 68 5-{6-[2-(2-Cyano-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 1.0 (C) 445.4 4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 69 5-{6-[2-(4-Cyano-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 1.0 (C) 445.3 4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 70 5-{6-[2-(2-Difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 470 pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 71 4-{6-[2-(4-Difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.9 (C) 464.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid (*1) 72 5-{6-[2-(4-Difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 470.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 73 (4-{6-[2-(4-Difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.8 (C) 494.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid (*1) 74 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methyl-benzofuran-7-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.0 (C) 423.1253 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 75 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methyl-benzofuran-7-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.8 (C) 448.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid (*1) 76 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.8 (C) 458.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid 77 {2-Ethoxy-4-[6-(2-naphthalen-1-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 0.8 (C) 444 4-yl]-phenoxyl-acetic acid 78 5-{6-[2-(2-Amino-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 0.9 (C) 435.3 4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 79 5-{6-[2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.9 (C) 438 pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 80 (4-{6-[2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.7 (C) 462.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid 81 5-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 0.7 (C) 475 4-yl}-3-trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 82 5-[6-(2-Quinolin-8-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-3- 1.0 (C) 445.4 trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 83 5-(4-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.6 (C) 440.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-isoxazol-3-ol [tautomeric form: 5-(4-(6-((2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino) pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)isoxazol-3(2H)-one] 84 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methyl-isoquinolin-5-yl)- 0.6 (C) 455 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 85 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methyl-isoquinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.6 (C) 435.2 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 86 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methyl-isoquinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.5 (C) 459.2 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid 87 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(7-methoxy-4-methyl-quinolin-8-yl)- 0.7 (C) 485.2 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-(C)yl}-benzoic acid 88 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.5 (C) 472.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenylamino)-acetic acid 89 3-(3-Methoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)- 0.5 (C) 465.1 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-oxetan-3-ol 90 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.5 (C) 417 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenol 91 3-Hydroxy-4-(4-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)- 0.5 (C) 453 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-cyclobut-3-ene- 1,2-dione 92 3-(4-{6-[2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.8 (C) 440.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-4-hydroxy-cyclobut-3-ene- 1,2-dione 93 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.9 (C) 432.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 94 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 458 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 95 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.1 (C) 438.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 96 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.8 (C) 462.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid (*1) 97 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.8 (C) 446.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid (*1) 98 1-Ethyl-3-(2-methoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)- 0.5 (C) 473 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-urea 99 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.9 (C) 442.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid 100 2-Ethylsulfanyl-4-{6-[2-(4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 444.3 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 101 4-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 0.9 (C) 420.2 4-yl]-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid 102 4-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 1.0 (C) 446.3 4-yl]-2-cyclobutoxy-benzoic acid 103 5-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 1.0 (C) 426.2 4-yl]-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 104 {4-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 0.8 (C) 450.3 4-yl]-2-ethoxy-phenoxyl-acetic acid 105 {4-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 0.8 (C) 434.3 4-yl]-2-ethoxy-phenyl}-acetic acid 106 4-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 0.9 (C) 420.3 4-yl]-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid 107 4-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 1.0 (C) 446.3 4-yl]-2-cyclobutoxy-benzoic acid 108 5-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 1.0 (C) 426.2 4-yl]-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid 109 {4-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 0.8 (C) 449.9 4-yl]-2-ethoxy-phenoxyl-acetic acid 110 {4-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin- 0.8 (C) 433.9 4-yl]-2-ethoxy-phenyl}-acetic acid 111 4-{6-[2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.6 (C) 404 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-phenol 112 [2-(6-Methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethyl]-[6-(3,4,5,6- 0.5 (C) 441.2 tetrahydro-2H-[1,2′]bipyridinyl-4′-yl)-pyrimidin-4-yl] amine 113 {6-[4-(5-Amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl)-phenyl]-pyrimidin- 0.5 (C) 456 4-yl}-[2-(6-methoxy-quiolin-5-yl)-ethyl]-amine 114 [2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)-ethyl]-(6-quinolin- 0.7 (C) 395.1 6-yl-pyrimidin-4-yl)-amine 115 [2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)-ethyl]-(6-isoquinolin- 0.7 (C) 395.1 7-yl-pyrimidin-4-yl)-amine 116 3-Hydroxy-4-(4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 0.9 (C) 452.1 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-cyclobut-3-ene- 1,2-dione 117 6-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 0.5 (C) 427 4-yl}-1-methyl-1,2-dihydro-indazol-3-one 118 (E)-3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.2 (C) 476.3 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-acrylic acid 119 2-Butoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.1 (C) 472 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 120 3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 0.8 (C) 488 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-propionic acid (*1) 121 4-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.0 (C) 442 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-propyl-benzoic acid 122 2-Isobutyl-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 456 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 123 2-Fluoro-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 460 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-6-propyl-benzoic acid 124 2-Butoxy-6-fluoro-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.1 (C) 490.2 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 125 {6-[3-Ethoxy-4-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)-phenyl]-pyrimidin-4-yl}- 0.9 (C) 468.4 [2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethyl]amine 126 3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 484.1 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-4H-[1,2,4]oxadiazol- 5-one form: 3-(2-ethoxy-4-(6-[(2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1- yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol] 127 2-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.0 (C) 439.2 pyrimidin-4-yl}-1H-indole-6-carboxylic acid 128 2-Difluoromethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 466.3 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid 129 2-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.9 (C) 439.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-1H-indole-4-carboxylic acid 130 2-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.9 (C) 439 pyrimidin-4-yl}-1H-indole-5-carboxylic acid 131 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 478.1 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-propionic acid 132 (3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 1.0 (C) 464.3 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)- acetic acid (*1) 133 N-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)- 0.9 (C) 487.3 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-oxalamic acid 134 5-(4-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.9 (C) 439 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-isoxazol-3-ol [tautomeric form: 5-(4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl) ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)isoxazol-3(2H)-one]

Example 135: 3-Ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)-N-sulfamoylthiophene-2-carboxamide

To a solution of 3-ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (Example 4, 70 mg, 0.156 mmol) in DMSO/THF (2:1, 3 mL) is added CDI (37.9 mg, 0.234 mmol). The RM is heated at 60° C. for 1 h, cooled to RT and treated with sulfamide (33.3 mg, 0.343 mmol) and DBU (0.0582 mL, 0.389 mmol). It is then stirred at RT for 2 h, concentrated under reduced pressure, and purified by prep. HPLC, to afford the title compound as a beige solid (21 mg, 26%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.91 min; [M+H]⁺=528.16.

Example 136: N-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carbonyl)-methanesulfonamide

Following the same method as described for example 135, using methyl sulfonamide, the title compound is obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.99 min; [M+H]=527.15.

Example 137: 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one [tautomeric form: 3-(5-(6-((2-(1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)-3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]

To a solution of 3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol (61.3 mg, 0.2 mmol) in DMF (2 mL) at RT are added (benzotriazol-1-yloxy)tris(dimethylamino)phosphonium hexafluorophosphate (141 mg, 0.31 mmol) and Et₃N (0.14 mL, 1 mmol). The RM is stirred at RT for 1 h then 2-(1H-indol-4-yl)ethan-1-amine (0.26 mmol) is added. The resulting RM is stirred overnight at 80° C. The crude RM is purified by prep. HPLC, to afford the title compound as a pale yellow powder (35 mg, 35%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.85 min; [M+H]⁺=449.02.

a) 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol

A suspension of 3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol (5180 mg, 12.1 mmol) in HCl (4M in dioxane, 100 mL) is heated at 100° C. overnight, cooled down to RT, and the solvent is partially removed. The solid residue is filtered off washing with water, and dried under high vacuum, affording the title compound as a light yellow solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.66 min; [M+H]⁺=307.01.

b) 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol

To a RM of 3-ethoxy-N′-hydroxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carboximidamide (6930 mg, 22.6 mmol) and DBU (8.62 mL, 56.5 mmol) in dioxane/DMSO (3:2, 220 mL) is added CDI (5498 mg, 33.9 mmol). The RM is stirred at 100° C. for 30 min, then cooled to RT. Evaporation of the solvent and trituration in 2N HCl afforded the title compound as a yellow solid (7.15 g, 99%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.89 min; [M+H]⁺=321.14.

c) 3-Ethoxy-N′-hydroxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carboximidamide

A suspension of 3-ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carbonitrile (6860 mg, 24.7 mmol), TEA (10.3 mL, 74 mmol) and hydroxylamine hydrochloride (2.59 mL, 61.7 mmol) in EtOH (220 mL) is refluxed for 3 h, then cooled to RT and treated with water (30 mL) The yellow solid is filtered off and dried under high vacuum. The filtrate is concentrated and the solid is triturated in water, filtered off and combined with the first crop. The title compound is obtained as a yellow solid (6.93 g, 95%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.62 min; [M+H]⁺=295.23.

d) 3-Ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carbonitrile

Cyanuric chloride (6248 mg, 33.5 mmol) is added portionwise at 0° C. to a suspension of 3-ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carboxamide (6940 mg, 22.4 mmol) in DMF (130 mL). The RM is then stirred at RT for 45 min. It is cooled at 0° C. and diluted with water. The solid is filtered off, washing with water and then EtOAc, and dried under high vacuum. The filtrate is extracted twice with EtOAc, combined organic layers are washed with brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure. Both solids are combined to afford the title compound as a beige solid (5.49 g, 94%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.00 min; [M+H]⁺=262.26.

e) 3-Ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carboxamide

CDI (4861 mg, 29.1 mmol) is added to a solution of 3-ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (7410 mg, 26.4 mmol) in THF (140 mL) at RT. The RM is stirred for 30 min, then NH4OH (25% solution, 61.1 mL, 397 mmol) is added, and the RM is stirred at RT for 30 min, then concentrated under reduced pressure, and the residue is triturated in 2N HCl. The title compound is filtered off, dried under high vacuum, and obtained as a yellow solid (6.94 g, 94%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.79 min; [M+H]⁺=280.22.

f) 3-Ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylic Acid

A suspension of methyl 3-ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylate (7870 mg, 26.2 mmol) in MeOH (210 mL) and NaOH 2M (38.8 mL, 419 mmol) is stirred overnight at RT. It is then acidified with HCl 24.5% (8N) (60 mL), MeOH is removed under vacuum and the slurry is filtered, to afford the title compound as a yellow solid (7.41 g, 99%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.77 min; [M+H]⁺=281.19.

g) Methyl 3-ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylate

A RM of methyl 3-ethoxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylate (10520 mg, 30 mmol), 4-chloro-6-methoxypyrimidine (4645 mg, 31.5 mmol), dichloro(1,1′-bis(diphenylphosphino) ferrocene) palladium (II) dichloromethane adduct) (2449 mg, 3 mmol) and potassium phosphate tribasic monohydrate (20719 mg, 90 mmol) in water (4 mL) and DMF (150 mL) is degassed for 20 min under a nitrogen stream, then stirred at RT for 1 h 15. The RM is filtered through celite, the filtrate is concentrated under vacuum, the residue is partitioned between water and EtOAc. The organic layer is further washed with brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated. Purification by FC (heptane/EtOAc, from 1:0 to 0:1) affords the title compound as a yellow solid (7.87 g, 89%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.93 min; [M+H]⁺=295.18.

h) Methyl 3-ethoxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylate

The title compound is prepared according to the synthesis of A.2.1. using methyl 3-ethoxythiophene-2-carboxylate, and obtained as a white solid; LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.63 min; [M+H]⁺=313.13.

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137, the following examples are synthesized, starting from 3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol and the corresponding commercially available arylethyl amines (see table 6).

TABLE 6 Examples 138-144 MS t_(R) [min] Data (LC- m/z Ex. Compound MS C) [M + H]⁺ 138 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 138 1.2 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one form: 3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl) amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol] 139 3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-isoquinolin-8-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4- 139 0.7 yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one [tautomeric form: 3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(isoquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin- 4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol] 140 3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-quinolin-8-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4- 140 0.9 yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one [tautomeric form: 3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(quinolin-8-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin- 4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol] 141 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 141 1.2 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one form: 3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(4-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl) amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol] 142 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]- 142 0.7 pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one form: 3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino) pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol] 143 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4- 143 1.1 yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one form: 3-(5-(6- ((2-(1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin- 4-yl)-3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol] 144 3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-isoquinolin-5-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4- 144 0.7 yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one [tautomeric form: 3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(isoquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin- 4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]

Example 145: {6-[4-Ethoxy-5-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)-thiophen-2-yl]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethyl]-amine

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137, using 2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 6-(4-ethoxy-5-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)thiophen-2-yl)pyrimidin-4-ol, the title compound is obtained as a pale yellow powder. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.61 min; [M+H]⁺=475.08.

a) 6-(4-Ethoxy-5-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)thiophen-2-yl)pyrimidin-4-ol

4-(4-Ethoxy-5-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-6-methoxypyrimidine (30 mg, 0.0986 mmol) is treated with HCl 4M in dioxane (0.5 mL) and the RM is stirred at 55-60° C. overnight. It is then concentrated under reduced pressure and purified by prep. HPLC to afford the title compound as a white solid (12 mg, 42%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.59 min; [M+H]⁺=291.04.

b) 4-(4-Ethoxy-5-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-6-methoxypyrimidine

To a solution of 3-ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carbonitrile (Example 137-d, 72 mg, 0.276 mmol) in toluene (2.1 mL), trimethylsilylazide (0.0544 mL, 0.413 mmol) and dibutyltin oxide (6.86 mg, 0.0276 mmol) are added. The RM is stirred at 110° C. overnight in a sealed tube. The solvent is evaporated, then the residue is dissolved in MeOH and adjusted to pH=10 with NaOH 2M. The solution is loaded onto a PE_AX cartridge for standard catch&release protocol, which afforded the title compound as a yellow solid (43 mg, 51%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.78 min; [M+H]⁺=305.06.

Example 146: 3-Ethoxy-N-hydroxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxamidine

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-c, using 3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carbonitrile, the title compound is obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.56 min; [M+H]⁺=465.03.

a) 3-Ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carbonitrile

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137, using 2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 3-ethoxy-5-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carbonitrile, the title compound is obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.74 min; [M+H]⁺=432.16.

b) 3-Ethoxy-5-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carbonitrile

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-a, using 3-ethoxy-5-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carbonitrile (Example 137-d), the title compound is obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.69 min; [M+H]⁺=242.12.

Example 147: 4-Ethoxy-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazole-5-carboxylic Acid

To a solution of ethyl 4-ethoxy-2-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate (58.3 mg, 0.2 mmol, 1 eq) in DMF (2 mL) are added Et₃N (0.151 mL, 1.08 mmol) and PyBop (150 mg, 0.288 mmol). The RM is stirred at RT for a few minutes until complete dissolution and 2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride (59 mg, 0.25 mmol) is added. The RM is heated at 100° C. for 30 min in the MW apparatus. NaOH 10% (0.721 mL, 2 mmol) is added and the RM is stirred at 70° C. overnight. Purification by prep. LC-MS affords the title compound as a yellow solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.74 min; [M+H]⁺=451.17.

a) Ethyl 4-ethoxy-2-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-a with ethyl 4-ethoxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate, the title compound is obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.78 min; [M+H]⁺=296.15.

b) Ethyl 4-ethoxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate

To a solution of ethyl 4-hydroxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate (1730 mg, 6.15 mmol) in DMF (40 mL) at RT under argon is added K₂CO₃ (2168 mg, 15.4 mmol), and the RM is heated at 60° C. Iodoethane (0.749 mL, 9.23 mmol) is added and the RM is stirred at 75° C. overnight. It is then cooled to RT, and water (75 mL) is added. The aq layer is extracted with DCM, the organic extracts are dried (MgSO₄), filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure, affording the crude title compound as an orange solid (1.75 g, 76%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.04 min; [M+H]⁺=310.24.

c) Ethyl 4-hydroxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate

To a solution of 6-methoxypyrimidine-4-carbothioamide (1000 mg, 5.85 mmol) in toluene (40 mL) is added pyridine (1.9 mL, 23.4 mmol) at RT, followed by diethyl bromomalonate (1.52 mL, 8.19 mmol). The RM is heated at reflux overnight, then cooled to RT and treated with HCl 2N. The product is filtered off. The layers of the filtrate are separated and the aq layer is extracted twice with EtOAC. The combined organic layers are dried over MgSO₄, filtered, evaporated to dryness. The residue is combined with the first crop, yielding the title compound as a brown solid (1.73 g, 99%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.89 min; [M+H]⁺=282.18.

Example 148: 4-Ethyl-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazole-5-carboxylic Acid

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 147, using 2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and ethyl 4-ethyl-2-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate, the title compound is obtained as a orange solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.96 min; [M+H]⁺=435.03.

a) Ethyl 4-ethyl-2-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-a with ethyl 4-ethyl-2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate, the title compound is obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.73 min; [M+H]⁺=266.26.

b) Ethyl 4-ethyl-2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate

To a solution of methyl 2-chloro-3-oxovalerate (0.96 mL, 6.5 mmol) in EtOH (30 mL) is added 6-methoxypyrimidine-4-carbothioamide (1000 mg, 5.91 mmol) and the RM is refluxed overnight. Methyl 2-chloro-3-oxovalerate (1.31 mL, 8.86 mmol) is added and the RM is further refluxed for 24 h, then cooled at RT and treated with water (15 mL), cooled down to 0° C. The precipitate is filtered off, rinsed with MeOH and dried under high vacuum, affording the title compound as a pinkish solid (485 mg, 28%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.07 min; [M+H]⁺=294.20.

Example 149: 3-(4-Ethoxy-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazol-5-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one [tautomeric form: 3-(4-ethoxy-2-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol] (*1)

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137, using 2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 3-(4-ethoxy-2-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol, the title compound is obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.09 min; [M+H]⁺=491.09.

a) 3-(4-Ethoxy-2-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-a with 3-(4-ethoxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol, the title compound is obtained as a yellowish solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.68 min; [M+H]⁺=308.17.

b) 3-(4-Ethoxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-b with 4-ethoxy-N′-hydroxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboximidamide, the title compound is obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.94 min; [M+H]⁺=321.93.

c) 4-Ethoxy-N′-hydroxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboximidamide

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-c with 4-ethoxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carbonitrile, the title compound is obtained as a deep yellow solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.67 min; [M+H]⁺=296.17.

d) 4-Ethoxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carbonitrile

NH₄OH (25%, 4.05 mL, 26.3 mmol) and 12 (1824 mg, 7.19 mmol) are added at 0° C. to a solution of 4-ethoxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carbaldehyde (465 mg, 1.75 mmol) in THF (15 mL) and the RM is stirred at RT for 3 h. It is then poured in 10 mL of NaHSO₃ 40% (15 mL) and extracted with EtOAc, dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated under vacuum, to afford the title compound as an orange solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.02 min; [M+H]⁺=263.25.

e) 4-Ethoxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carbaldehyde

A RM of ethyl 4-ethoxy-2-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate (Example 147-b, 706 mg, 2.64 mmol) in THF (20 mL) is cooled down to −78° C. and DiBAI-H (1M in THF, 5.28 mL, 5.28 mmol) is added dropwise. The RM is stirred at RT overnight. The RM is quenched at 0° C. by dropwise addition of water (200 uL), then NaOH 10% (400 uL) and finally water (600 uL). The aluminium precipitate is filtered over a pad of Celite and rinced with EtOAc. The filtrate is dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is dissolved in DCM (20 mL) and MnO₂ (2701 mg, 26.4 mmol) is added. The RM is stirred 5 h at RT, then filtered over a pad of Celite and rinsed with EtOAc. The filtrate is concentrated under reduced pressure, affording the title compound as a light orange solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.97 min; [M+H]⁺=266.25.

Example 150: 5-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-quinolin-8-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic Acid

Following the general procedure F with 2-(2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 5-(6-chloropyrimidin-4-yl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)thiophene-2-carboxylic acid, the title compound is obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.89 min; [M+H]⁺=475.00.

a) 5-(6-Chloropyrimidin-4-yl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)thiophene-2-carboxylic Acid

Following the general procedure G, using 4,6-dichloropyrimidine and 5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (A.2.8.), the title compound is obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.83 min; [M+MeCN]⁺=349.91.

b) 2-(2-Methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

Following the general procedure E with tert-butyl (2-(2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)carbamate, the title compound is obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.58 min; [M+H]⁺=203.24.

c) Tert-butyl (2-(2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)carbamate

Following the general procedure C with 8-iodo-2-methoxyquinoline, the title compound is obtained as a yellow oil. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.94 min; [M+H]⁺=303.07.

d) 8-Iodo-2-methoxyquinoline

To a suspension of 8-iodo-1,2-dihydroquinolin-2-one (1.55 g, 5.72 mmol) in DMF (0.66 mL, 8.58 mmol) and toluene (10 mL) at 95° C. is added dropwise POCl₃ (0.425 mL, 4.57 mmol). The RM is stirred at 95° C. for 1 h, then cooled to 0° C. and quenched with 32% NaOH (1.59 mL, 17.2 mmol). It is then diluted with 5 mL water and the RM heated up to 30° C. to get the RM complete dissolved. The layers are separated and the organic layer is washed with 5 mL water, and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is dissolved in 15 mL toluene. NaOMe (25% in MeOH, 3.92 mL, 17.2 mmol) is added and the RM is heated up to 80° C. and stirred for 1 h. The RM is cooled down to 10° C., acidified with 32% HCl. The resulting yellow suspension is diluted with 5 ml water, and the solution is stirred for 10 min, then the layers are separated. The organic layer is washed with 5 ml water and evaporated to dryness. The residue is purified by FC, eluting with DCM, affording the title compound as a light yellow solid (1.36 g, 83%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.95 min; [M+H]⁺=286.05.

Example 151: 5-{6-[2-(7-Fluoro-2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1)

Following the general procedure F with 2-(7-fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 5-(6-chloropyrimidin-4-yl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (Example 150-a), the title compound is obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.92 min; [M+H]⁺=492.98.

a) 2-(7-Fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

Following the general procedure E with tert-butyl (2-(7-fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)carbamate, the title compound is obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.58 min; [M+H]⁺=221.20.

b) Tert-butyl (2-(7-fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)carbamate

Following the general procedure C with 8-bromo-7-fluoro-2-methoxyquinoline, the title compound is obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.96 min; [M+H]⁺=321.06.

Example 152: 5-{6-[2-(6-Fluoro-2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1)

Following the general procedure F with 2-(6-fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 5-(6-chloropyrimidin-4-yl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (Example 150-a), the title compound is obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.91 min; [M+H]⁺=492.98.

a) 2-(6-Fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

Following the general procedure E with tert-butyl (2-(6-fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)carbamate, the title compound is obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.60 min; [M+H]⁺=221.18.

b) Tert-butyl (2-(6-fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)carbamate

Following the general procedure C with 6-fluoro-8-iodo-2-methoxyquinoline, the title compound is obtained as a pale yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.97 min; [M+H]⁺=321.09.

c) 6-Fluoro-8-iodo-2-methoxyquinoline

Following the procedure described for Example 150-d, with 6-fluoro-8-iodo-1,2-dihydroquinolin-2-one, the title compound is obtained as an off-white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.97 min; [M+H]⁺=304.16.

Example 153: 5-{6-[2-(6-Fluoro-2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1)

Following the general procedure F with 2-(5-fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride and 5-(6-chloropyrimidin-4-yl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (Example 150-a), the title compound is obtained as a white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.91 min; [M+H]⁺=492.98.

a) 2-(5-fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride

Following the general procedure E with tert-butyl (2-(6-fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)carbamate, the title compound is obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.61 min; [M+H]⁺=221.20.

b) Tert-butyl (2-(6-fluoro-2-methoxyquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)carbamate

Following the general procedure C with 6-fluoro-8-iodo-2-methoxyquinoline, the title compound is obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.97 min; [M+H]⁺=321.10.

c) 6-Fluoro-8-iodo-2-methoxyquinoline

Following the procedure described for Example 150-d, with 5-fluoro-8-iodo-dihydroquinolin-2(1H)-one, the title compound is obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.97 min; no ionization.

d) 5-Fluoro-8-iodo-dihydroquinolin-2(1H)-one

A solution of N-(5-fluoro-2-iodophenyl)-3,3-dimethoxypropanamide (24 g, 68 mmol) in DCM (20 mL) is added dropwise at RT to sulfuric acid (100 g, 1.02 mol). The RM is stirred at RT for 2 h, then concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is added to 250 g ice, DCM (500 mL) is added and the RM is stirred for 15 min. The organic layer is separated and washed with water then concentrated under reduced pressure, affording the title compound as a beige solid (19 g, 97%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.72 min; [M+H]⁺=289.97.

e) N-(5-Fluoro-2-iodophenyl)-3,3-dimethoxypropanamide

To a solution of 5-fluoro-2-iodoaniline (15 g, 61.4 mmol) and methyl 3,3-dimethoxypropionate (11.5 g, 73.7 mmol) in THF (300 mL) at 0° C. is added NaHMDS (46 mL, 91.9 mmol) via dropping funnel. The RM is then stirred at RT for 1.5 h. 40% Citric acid is added to pH=4, the organic solvent is evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue is diluted with water and extracted with DCM. The organic layer is concentrated in vacuo, yielding the title compound as a beige solid (24.8 g, quantitative). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.79 min; [M+H]⁺=353.95.

Example 154: 5-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic Acid

Following the general procedure F with 2-(6-methoxy-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine and 5-(6-chloropyrimidin-4-yl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (Example 150-a), the title compound is obtained as an off-white solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.66 min; [M+H]⁺=493.01.

a) 2-(6-Methoxy-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine

Following the general procedure E with tert-butyl (2-(6-methoxy-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate, the title compound is obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.31 min; [M+H]⁺=221.26.

b) Tert-butyl (2-(6-methoxy-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate

To a solution of tert-butyl (2-(6-methoxy-1-methyl-quinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate hydroiodide (328 mg, 0.738 mmol) in MeOH (13 mL) and H₂O (1 mL) at 0° C. is added sodium borohydride (162 mg, 4.29 mmol) portionwise. The RM is then allowed to stir at RT for 4 h 30. The RM is cooled to 0° C. and sodium borohydride (162 mg, 4.29 mmol) are added. The RM is stirred at RT o/n, then concentrated under vacuum. The residue is poured into water and extracted 2× with DCM. The combined extracts are washed with brine then dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by FC (hept./EtOAc 8:2) to obtain the title compound as a yellow oil (66 mg, 28%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.64 min; [M+H]⁺=321.14.

c) Tert-butyl (2-(6-methoxy-1-methyl-quinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate hydroiodide

A solution of tert-butyl (2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate (300 mg, 0.992 mmol) in acetone (2.2 mL) is treated with iodomethane (0.144 mL, 2.29 mmol) then allowed to stir at RT for 2 days. The yellow precipitate is then filtered, washed with acetone and dried under high vacuum to afford the target product as a light yellow solid (329 mg, 75%). LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.61 min; [M+H]⁺=317.19.

d) Tert-butyl (2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate

Following the general procedure C with 5-bromo-6-methoxyquinoline, the title compound is obtained as a brown solid. LC-MS A: t_(R)=0.65 min; [M+H]⁺=240.07.

Example 155: 2-(2-Hydroxy-ethoxy)-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1)

Following the general procedure G with 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine (A.1.6.) and methyl 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzoate, the title compound is obtained as a white solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.73 min; [M+H]⁺=460.21.

a) Methyl 2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)benzoate

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.3., starting with methyl 4-bromo-2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)benzoate. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.89 min; [M+H]⁺=323.26.

b) Methyl 4-bromo-2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)benzoate

NaH (101 mg, 4.2 mmol) is added portionwise to a 0° C. solution of methyl 4-bromo-2-hydroxybenzoate (500 mg, 2.1 mmol) in DMF (5 mL). The RM is stirred for a few minutes at 0° C., then 2-bromoethanol (0.235 mL, 3.15 mmol) is added and the RM is stirred at 90° C. for 2 h 45, then cooled to RT. Water is added to the RM and it is extracted twice with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with brine, dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by FC (heptane/EtOAc, 1:0 to 6:4), affording the title compound as a colorless oil (358 mg, 62%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.77 min; [M+H]⁺=275.14.

Example 156: 3-(2-Hydroxy-ethoxy)-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1)

Following the general procedure G with 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine (A.1.6.) and 7-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)-2,3-dihydro-5H-thieno[3,2-e][1,4]dioxepin-5-one, the title compound is obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.77 min; [M+H]⁺=465.91.

a) 7-(4,4,5,5-Tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)-2,3-dihydro-5H-thieno[3,2-e][1,4]dioxepin-5-one

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.17., starting with 2,3-dihydro-5H-thieno[3,2-e][1,4]dioxepin-5-one. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.51 min; [M+H]⁺=215.41 (mass from boronic acid from pinacol ester cleavage during LC-MS analysis).

b) 2,3-Dihydro-5H-thieno[3,2-e][1,4]dioxepin-5-one

A MW vial is charged with K₂CO₃ (623 mg, 4.5 mmol), methyl 3-hydroxythiophene-2-carboxylate (250 mg, 1.5 mmol) and DMF (5 mL). The RM is stirred for a few minutes then 2-bromoethanol (0.146 mL, 1.95 mmol) is added, the vial is capped and heated at 100° C. for 2 h under MW irradiation. 2-Bromoethanol (0.0319 mL, 0.45 mmol) is added and the RM is stirred at 90° C. overnight, under thermal conditions. Once at RT, water is added and the RM is extracted thrice with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure, affording the crude title compound as a brownish solid (338 mg, quantitative). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.61 min; [M+H]⁺=170.94.

Example 157: 3-(2-Dimethylamino-ethoxy)-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic Acid

To a solution of methyl 3-hydroxy-5-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylate (29 mg, 0.0666 mmol), Cs₂CO₃ (65.1 mg, 0.2 mmol) and TBAI (5 mg, 0.0133 mmol) in DMF (1 mL) is added (2-bromoethyl)dimethylamine (49 mg, 0.2 mmol) and the RM is heated at 120° C. overnight. The RM is cooled to RT and treated with NaOH 10% (0.266 mL, 0.666 mmol), and further stirred at RT for 4 h. The RM is filtered, rinced with MeOH and purified by prep HPLC to yield the title compound as a red solid (3 mg, 9%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.69 min; [M+H]⁺=493.2.

a) Methyl 3-hydroxy-5-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylate

Following the general procedure F with 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine (A.1.6.) and methyl 3-hydroxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylate, the title compound is obtained as an ochre solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.97 min; [M+H]⁺=436.22.

b) Methyl 3-hydroxy-5-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)thiophene-2-carboxylate

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of A.2.1., using methyl 3-hydroxythiophene-2-carboxylate, the title compound is obtained as a brown solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.56 min; no ionization.

Compounds of Examples 158-187 listed in Table 7 below are prepared by applying either General H or G to the pyrimidine halide derivatives A.1.1.-A.1.58. coupled with commercially available boronic acid derivatives or with boronic acid derivatives A.2.1.-A.2.21.

TABLE 7 Examples 158-187 MS t_(R) [min] Data (LC-MS m/z Ex. Compound C) [M + H]⁺ 158 5-{6-[2-(2-Cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.087 493.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid (*1) 159 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.912 441 pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 160 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.849 458.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid 161 (4-{6-[2-(4-Bromo-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 0.849 509.1 4-yl}-2-ethoxy-phenyl)-acetic acid (*1) 162 (4-{6-[2-(4-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}- 0.945 506 2-ethoxy-phenyl)-acetic acid (*1) 163 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.868 446 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid (*1) 164 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.882 442.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid (*1) 165 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-fluoro-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.845 452.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid (*1) 166 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.83 464.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid (*1) 167 (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)- 0.757 461.2 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid (*1) 168 4-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.975 449.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 169 4-{6-[2-(4-Bromo-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.979 497.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 170 4-{6-[2-(2-Bromo-4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.096 512.1 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 171 4-{6-[2-(4-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}- 1.061 493.9 2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 172 4-{6-[2-(5-Fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}- 0.965 434 2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 173 4-{6-[2-(5-Methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}- 0.979 430.3 2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 174 4-{6-[2-(5-Methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.906 452.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 175 4-{6-[2-(5-Methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.825 449.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 176 4-{6-[2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indol-4H)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 0.863 433.4 4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 177 4-{6-[2-(5-Ethoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.984 466.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 178 4-{6-[2-(3-Fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 0.969 434.3 4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid (*1) 179 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.003 456.2 pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 180 4-{6-[2-(4-Bromo-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.975 495.2 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid (*1) 181 4-{6-[2-(2-Bromo-4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 1.09 510.4 pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid (*1) 182 4-{6-[2-(4-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin- 1.052 492.2 4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid (*1) 183 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.961 432.3 pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 184 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]- 0.971 428 pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 185 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)- 0.898 450.3 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 186 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)- 0.82 447.4 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1) 187 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-ethoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)- 0.975 464.2 ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid (*1)

Example 188: 3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-quinolin-5-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one [tautomeric form: 3-{3-ethoxy-5-[6-(2-quinolin-5-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-ol]

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137, using 3-(3-ethoxy-5-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol (Example 137-a) and 2-(quinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine bis(2,2,2-trifluoroacetate), the title compound is obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS C: t_(R)=0.742 min; [M+H]⁺=461.2.

a) 2-(Quinolin-5-yl)ethan-1-amine bis(2,2,2-trifluoroacetate)

The title compound is obtained from tert-butyl (2-(quinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate, following the general procedure D. LC-MS D: t_(R)=0.57 min; [M+H]⁺=173.00.

b) Tert-butyl (2-(quinolin-5-yl)ethyl)carbamate

The title compound is obtained from 5-bromoquinoline, following the general procedure C. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.60 min; [M+H]⁺=273.33.

Example 189: 3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-[1,2,4]-oxadiazole-5(4H)-thione [tautomeric form: 3-(2-ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazole-5-thiol]

To a solution of (E/Z)-2-ethoxy-N′-hydroxy-4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)benzimidamide (194 mg, 0.424 mmol) in dioxane (2 mL) and DMSO (2 mL) at RT under argon are added 1,1′-thiocarbonyldiimidazole (119 mg, 0.636 mmol) and 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (0.252 mL, 1.65 mmol). The RM is shaken over night at 90° C. It is then cooled to RT, concentrated under vacuo and purified by prep. LC-MS, affording the title compound as a beige powder (65 mg, 31%). LC-MS C: t_(R)=1.091 min; [M+H]⁺=500.3.

a) (E/Z)-2-Ethoxy-N′-hydroxy-4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)benzimidamide

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-c, using 2-ethoxy-4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)benzonitrile, the title compound is obtained as a grey powder. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.60 min; [M+H]⁺=458.20.

b) 2-Ethoxy-4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)benzonitrile

Following the general procedure G with 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine (A.1.6.) and 4-cyano-3-ethoxyphenylboronic acid, the title compound is obtained as a grey powder. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.92 min; [M+H]⁺=424.97.

Example 190: 3-(4-Ethyl-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazol-5-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one [tautomeric form: 3-(4-ethyl-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazol-5-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-ol]

Following the General Procedure I, using 3-(4-ethyl-2-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol and 2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethan-1-amine hydrochloride, the title compound is obtained as a yellow solid. LC-MS C: t_(R)=0.906 min; [M+H]⁺=475.1.

a) 3-(4-Ethyl-2-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-a with 3-(4-ethyl-2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol, the title compound is obtained as a grey solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.64 min; [M+H]⁺=292.17.

b) 3-(4-Ethyl-2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-b with 4-ethyl-N′-hydroxy-2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboximidamide, the title compound is obtained as a light orange solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.92 min; [M+H]⁺=320.21.

c) 4-Ethyl-N′-hydroxy-2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboximidamide

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-c with 4-ethyl-2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carbonitrile, the title compound is obtained as a light yellow solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.66 min; [M+H]⁺=294.21.

d) 4-Ethyl-2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carbonitrile

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-d with 2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-4-ethylthiazole-5-carboxamide, the title compound is obtained as a beige solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.04 min; [M+H]⁺=261.29.

e) 2-(6-Ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-4-ethylthiazole-5-carboxamide

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-e with 2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-4-ethylthiazole-5-carboxylic acid, the title compound is obtained as an orange solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.79 min; [M+H]⁺=279.25.

f) 2-(6-Ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-4-ethylthiazole-5-carboxylic Acid

An ice-chilled solution of ethyl 4-ethyl-2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate (1000 mg, 3.09 mmol) in THF/MeOH 1:1 (15 mL) is treated with NaOH 10% (5.58 mL, 15.5 mmol) and stirred at RT for 20 h. The solvents are removed under reduced pressure, the aqueous phase is extracted once with Et₂O. The aqueous phase is then acidified with 2N HCl and extracted with EtOAc (3×). The combined organic extracts are dried over MgSO₄, filtered and concentrated under reduced pressure, yielding the title compound as a greenish solid (522 mg, 64%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.88 min; [M+H]⁺=280.24.

g) Ethyl 4-ethyl-2-(6-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)thiazole-5-carboxylate

To a solution of methyl 2-chloro-3-oxovalerate (0.96 mL, 6.5 mmol) in EtOH (30 mL) is added 6-methoxypyrimidine-4-carbothioamide (1000 mg, 5.91 mmol) and the mixture is refluxed overnight. Methyl 2-chloro-3-oxovalerate (1.31 mL, 8.86 mmol) is added and the RM is further refluxed for 24 h, then cooled at RT and treated with water (15 mL), cooled down to 0° C. The precipitate is filtered off, rinsed with MeOH and dried under high vacuum, affording the title compound as a pinkish solid (485 mg, 28%). LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.07 min; [M+H]⁺=294.20.

Example 191: 3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzyl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one [tautomeric form: 3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzyl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-ol]

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-b with 2-(2-ethoxy-4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)-N-hydroxyacetimidamide, the title compound is obtained as a white solid. LC-MS C: t_(R)=0.888 min; [M+H]⁺=498.1.

a) 2-(2-Ethoxy-4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)-N-hydroxyacetimidamide

Following the procedure described for the synthesis of Example 137-c with 2-(2-ethoxy-4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)acetonitrile, the title compound is obtained as a light yellow solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.66 min; [M+H]⁺=294.21.

b) 2-(2-Ethoxy-4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)acetonitrile

Following the General Procedure G, with 6-chloro-N-(2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine (A.1.6.) and 2-(2-ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)acetonitrile, the title compound is obtained as a white solid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.89 min; [M+H]⁺=439.37.

c) 2-(2-ethoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)phenyl)acetonitrile

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for A.2.3., starting with 2-(4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)acetonitrile. LC-MS B: t_(R)=1.05 min; [M+H]⁺=288.4.

d) 2-(4-Bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)acetonitrile

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for Example 137-d, starting with 2-(4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)acetamide. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.97 min; no ionization. ¹H NMR (400 MHz, d6-DMSO) δ: 7.22-7.42 (m, 2H), 6.96-7.21 (m, 1H), 4.13 (q, J=6.9 Hz, 2H), 3.78-3.86 (m, 2H), 1.36 (m, 3H).

e) 2-(4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)acetamide

The title compound is prepared according to the procedure described for Example 137-e, starting with 2-(4-bromo-2-ethoxyphenyl)acetic acid. LC-MS B: t_(R)=0.76 min; [M+H]⁺=257.85.

II. Biological Assays

Compounds of the present invention may be further characterized with regard to their general pharmacokinetic and pharmacological properties using conventional assays well known in the art such as angiogenesis assays or tumor growth inhibition assays, or for example relating to their bioavailability in different species (such as rat or dog); or for their properties with regard to drug safety and/or toxicological properties using conventional assays well known in the art, for example relating to cytochrome P450 enzyme inhibition and time dependent inhibition, pregnane X receptor (PXR) activation, glutathione binding, or phototoxic behavior.

EMT-6 Mouse Tumor Model

The EMT-6 cell line is established from a transplantable murine mammary carcinoma that arose in a BALB/cCRGL mouse after implantation of a hyperplastic mammary alveolar nodule (Volence F J, et al, J Surg Oncol. 1980, 13(1):39-44), obtained from ATCC (American Type culture collection, Manassas, Va., USA).

EMT-6 tumour cells are grown as monolayer at 37° C. in a humidified atmosphere (5% CO2, 95% air) in RPMI 1640 containing 2 mM L glutamine supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum. For experimental use, tumour cells are detached from the culture flask with trypsin. The cells are counted in a hemocytometer and their viability is assessed by trypan blue exclusion.

Tumours are induced in female BALB/c mice by either subcutaneous injection of 1×10⁶ EMT-6 cells in 200 μL of RPMI 1640 into the right flank or by injection of 2.5×10⁵ EMT-6 cells in 50 μL of RPMI1640 into the mammary fat pad tissue. For the latter injection, female BALB/c mice are anaesthetized with Isoflurane and a 5 mm incision is made in the skin over the lateral thorax to expose the mammary fat pad tissue. After tumor cell injection the thoracic surface is gently dabbed with a 95% ethanol-dampened cotton-swab to kill tumor cells that may leak from the injection site. The skin of mice is closed with 4-0 crinerce sutures.

Animals are monitored daily for behavior and survival and twice weekly for body weight and tumor growth. Tumor size is measured with calipers and tumor volume is calculated according to the following formula: Tumor volume=(width²×length)/2.

When tumors reach between 60 and 100 mm³ (depending on the experiment), treatment with EP2 and/or EP4 antagonists is started and compound is given daily for at least 3 weeks.

Tumor weight is measured at the end of the study.

Biological In Vitro Assay

The antagonistic activities of the compounds of formula (I) on the EP2 and EP4 receptors are also determined in accordance with the following experimental method.

Human tumor cell lines expressing endogenously either EP4 or EP2 are used and cAMP accumulation in cells upon PGE2 stimulation is monitored. SF295 glioblastoma cells express high endogenous EP2 and no EP4, whereas BT549 breast cancer cells, express high endogenous EP4 levels and very low EP2 levels.

As a detection method for cAMP the HTRF (homogeneous time resolved fluorescence) Cisbio kit (HTRF cAMP dynamic 2 kit 20′000 tests Cisbio Cat. #62AM4PEC) was used, which is based on a competitive immunoassay using a Cryptate-labeled anti-cAMP antibody and d2-labeled cAMP. Native cAMP produced by cells or unlabeled cAMP (for the standard curve) compete with exogenously added d2-labeled cAMP (acceptor) for binding to monoclonal anti-cAMP-Eu3+Cryptate (donor). A FRET signal (Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer) is obtained only if the labeled anti-cAMP antibody binds the d2 labelled cAMP, thus the specific signal (i.e. energy transfer) is inversely proportional to the concentration of cAMP in the standard or sample.

hEP2 cAMP Assay:

The SF295 cells (NCI/No. 0503170) are detached from culture dishes with a cell dissociation buffer (Invitrogen, 13151-014), and collected in growing medium (GM: RPM11640 (Invitrogen 21875)/10% FCS, 1% Penicilin/streptomycin). Cells are counted washed and resuspended in assay buffer (AB; HBSS, 20 mM HEPES, 0.2% BSA; 2 mM IBMX). 4′000 cells in 5 μL of AB are seeded per well of a small volume 384 well plate (black with flat bottom, Greiner 784076).

Stock solutions of test compounds are made at a concentration of 10 mM in DMSO, and serially diluted in DMSO to concentrations required for inhibition dose response curves (tested concentration range 30 μM-0.4 nM; 30 μM-0.015 nM or 1 μM-0.01 nM).

PGE2 (Cayman 14010, stock solution: 75 μM in DMSO) is used as agonist at 75 nM final concentration, corresponding to EC80.

2.5 μL of diluted compounds are transferred into the assay plate. Plate is pre-incubated 45 minutes at room temperature. Subsequently, 2.5 μL of PGE2 (final conc. 75 nM) are transferred into the assay plate. Plate is incubated 30 minutes at room temperature. Five μL of each donor (anti-cAMP cryptate) and acceptor (cAMP-d2) are added and the plate is incubated another hour at room temperature in the dark and then read using a BMG LABTECH PHERAstar reader (Excitation: 337 nm, Emission: 620 and 665 nm).

The obtained Delta F (fluorescence) values (665 nm/620 nM) are converted into % cAMP values using the measurements of the cAMP calibrator provided in the kit. For each compound concentration the percentage of cAMP compared to DMSO control value as average ±STDEV (each concentration is measured in duplicate) is calculated.

IC₅₀ values and curves are generated with XLfit software (IDBS) using Dose-Response One Site model 203. When compounds were measured multiple times, mean values are given.

hEP4 cAMP Assay:

The BT549 cells (NCI/No. 0507282) are detached from culture dishes with a cell dissociation buffer (Invitrogen, 13151-014), and collected in growing medium (GM: RPMI1640 (Invitrogen 21875)/10% FCS, 1% Penicilin/streptomycin). Cells are counted washed and resuspended in assay buffer (AB; HBSS, 20 mM HEPES, 0.2% BSA; 2 mM IBMX). 4′000 cells in 5 μL of AB are seeded per well of a small volume 384 well plate (black with flat bottom, Greiner 784076).

Stock solutions of test compounds are made at a concentration of 10 mM in DMSO, and serially diluted in DMSO to concentrations required for inhibition dose response curves (tested concentration range 30 μM-0.4 nM; 30 μM-0.015 nM or 1 μM-0.01 nM).

PGE2 (Cayman 14010, stock solution: 6 uM in DMSO) is used as agonist at 6 nM final concentration, corresponding to EC80.

2.5 μL of diluted compounds are transferred into the assay plate. Plate is pre-incubated 45 minutes at room temperature. Subsequently, 2.5 μL of PGE2 (final conc. 6 nM) are transferred into the assay plate. Plate is incubated 30 minutes at room temperature. 5 μL of each donor (anti-cAMP cryptate) and acceptor (cAMP-d2) are added and the plate is incubated another hour at room temperature in the dark and then read using a BMG LABTECH PHERAstar reader (Excitation: 337 nm, Emission: 620 and 665 nm).

The obtained Delta F (fluorescence) values (665 nm/620 nM) are converted into % cAMP values using the measurements of the cAMP calibrator provided in the kit. For each compound concentration the percentage of cAMP compared to DMSO control value as average ±STDEV (each concentration is measured in duplicate) is calculated.

IC₅₀ values and curves are generated with XLfit software (IDBS) using Dose-Response One Site model 203. When compounds were measured multiple times, mean values are given.

The antagonistic activities of the compounds of formula (I) on the EP2 and EP4 receptors are also determined in accordance with the following experimental method.

The assay is using the PathHunter™ HEK 293 PTGER2 and PTGER4 b-arrestin cell lines from DiscoverX. The system is based on the Enzyme Fragment Complementation Technology. Two complementing fragments of the b-galactosidase enzyme are expressed within stably transfected cells. The larger portion of b-gal, termed EA for Enzyme Acceptor, is fused to the C-terminus of b-arrestin 2. The smaller fragment, termed ProLink™ tag, is fused to PTGER2 (EP2) or PTRGER4 (EP4) at the C-terminus. Upon activation, b-arrestin is recruited which forces the interaction of ProLink and EA, allowing complementation of the two fragments of b-gal and the formation of a functional enzyme which is capable of hydrolysing the substrate and generating a chemiluminescent signal.

hEP2 b-Arrestin Assay:

The HEK 293 PTGER2 b-arrestin cells (DiscoverX 93-021-4C1) are detached from culture dishes with a cell dissociation buffer (Invitrogen, 13151-014), and collected in growing medium (GM: DMEM+Glutamax-I (Invitrogen 32430)/10% FCS, 1% Penicilin/streptomycin). 5000 cells per well of a 384 well plate (white with white bottom Greiner 781080) are seeded in 20 μl per well of GM. Plate is incubated at 37° C., 5% CO2 for 24 hours.

Stock solutions of test compounds are made at a concentration of 10 mM in DMSO, and serially diluted in DMSO to concentrations required for inhibition dose response curves (tested concentration range 10 μM-2 nM or 1 μM-0.2 nM).

PGE2 (Cayman 14010, stock solution: 10 mM in DMSO) is used as agonist at 5 μM final concentration, corresponding to EC80.

Five microliters of diluted compounds are transferred into the assay plate. Plate is pre-incubated 15 minutes at 37° C. Then five microliters of PGE2 (final conc. 5 μM) are transferred into the assay plate. Plate is incubated 120 minutes at 37° C.

PathHunter Glo Detection Kit components are thawed and mix according to manufacturer's instructions: 1 part Galacton Star Substrate with 5 parts Emerald II™ Solution, and 19 parts of PathHunter Cell Assay Buffer, respectively. Twelve μl of reagent are transferred to the assay plate and incubate for 1 hour at room temperature in the dark. Luminescence counts are read on a BMG Fluostar Optima reader according to manufacturer's instructions.

For each compound concentration calculate of the percentage of activity compared to DMSO control value as average ±STDEV. (each concentration is measured in duplicate)

IC₅₀ values and curves are generated with XLfit software (IDBS) using Dose-Response One Site model 203. When compounds were measured multiple times, mean values are given.

hEP4 b-Arrestin Assay:

The HEK 293 PTGER4 b-arrestin cells (DiscoverX 93-030-4C1) are detached from culture dishes with a cell dissociation buffer (Invitrogen, 13151-014), and collected in growing medium (GM: DMEM+Glutamax-I (Invitrogen 32430)/10% FCS, 1% Penicilin/streptomycin). 5000 cells per well of a 384 well plate (white with white bottom Greiner 781080) are seeded in 20 ul per well of GM. Plate is incubated at 37° C., 5% CO2 for 24 hours.

Stock solutions of test compounds are made at a concentration of 10 mM in DMSO, and serially diluted in DMSO to concentrations required for inhibition dose response curves (tested concentration range 10 μM-2 nM or 1 μM-0.2 nM).

PGE2 (Cayman 14010, stock solution: 100 μM in DMSO) is used as agonist at 20 nM final concentration, corresponding to EC80.

Five microliters of diluted compounds are transferred into the assay plate. Plate is pre-incubated 15 minutes at 37° C. Then five microliters of PGE2 (final conc. 20 nM) are transferred into the assay plate. Plate is incubated 120 minutes at 37° C.

PathHunter Glo Detection Kit components are thawed and mix according to manufacturer's instructions: 1 part Galacton Star Substrate with 5 parts Emerald II™ Solution, and 19 parts of PathHunter Cell Assay Buffer, respectively. Twelve μl of reagent are transferred to the assay plate and incubate for 1 hour at room temperature in the dark. Luminescence counts are read on a BMG Fluostar Optima reader according to manufacturer's instructions.

For each compound concentration calculate of the percentage of activity compared to DMSO control value as average ±STDEV. (each concentration is measured in duplicate)

IC₅₀ values and curves are generated with XLfit software (IDBS) using Dose-Response One Site model 203. When compounds were measured multiple times, mean values are given.

Antagonistic activities (IC₅₀ in nM) in the beta-arrestin and cAMP assays of exemplified compounds are displayed in Table 8:

TABLE 8 hEP2 hEP4 hEP2 b- hEP4 b- cAMP cAMP Ex. arr IC₅₀ arr IC₅₀ IC₅₀ IC₅₀ 1 5 177 4 47 2 27 311 47 100 3 17 11 292 4 2 20 2 15 5 25 182 24 203 6 85 1690 95 910 7 22 67 909 8 71 133 568 9 11 56 9 14 10 5 22 11 261 885 12 27 52 17 17 13 25 225 24 138 14 28 17 77 24 15 27 192 25 171 16 143 290 176 268 17 95 281 270 18 19 9 21 7 19 129 93 646 20 73 199 680 21 32 77 16 62 22 949 613 23 303 293 248 239 24 17 203 15 96 25 15 145 15 48 26 10 392 11 566 27 3 53 2 33 28 1400 684 988 29 241 164 136 148 30 115 83 23 61 31 201 1410 190 567 32 10 19 10 72 33 56 252 78 223 34 39 114 64 152 35 115 113 76 92 36 262 368 37 126 53 596 38 22 48 39 81 386 50 101 40 525 853 41 297 711 42 32 15 31 35 43 252 797 44 36 51 37 42 45 10 53 10 44 46 110 311 85 244 47 45 123 654 48 22 147 729 49 108 160 458 50 399 631 51 473 853 52 779 758 53 5 305 17 54 878 420 55 829 300 56 53 52 292 57 508 962 58 825 401 59 156 17 141 38 60 845 384 61 113 183 745 62 32 19 24 29 63 99 239 300 64 106 80 872 65 18 78 15 75 66 350 227 714 67 29 499 25 309 68 7 24 3 22 69 78 48 79 66 70 78 163 368 71 91 374 128 72 50 8 50 6 73 34 465 102 74 212 117 78 88 75 976 889 76 66 259 116 77 418 403 78 41 50 56 51 79 36 196 25 92 80 338 495 81 116 427 30 205 82 987 960 83 119 89 428 84 149 179 989 85 30 244 32 130 86 177 77 674 87 70 103 850 88 94 155 645 89 178 197 878 90 36 58 351 91 146 228 818 92 287 544 93 36 36 427 94 34 53 368 95 8 51 4 21 96 66 180 426 97 132 218 355 98 354 335 99 177 765 225 100 133 206 206 76 101 128 129 619 102 145 224 263 103 33 314 79 73 104 335 356 105 784 685 106 258 867 107 149 250 267 108 31 225 52 31 109 726 452 110 878 597 111 50 171 855 112 190 210 685 113 47 27 459 114 224 35 492 115 245 95 493 116 25 1140 67 241 117 686 564 163 118 11 12 94 55 119 18 222 12 200 120 16 75 88 206 121 12 308 5 53 122 62 41 308 123 31 29 550 124 35 100 446 125 8 29 24 29 126 5 34 20 43 127 9 20 416 128 10 291 3 250 129 87 15 289 130 13 27 546 131 54 88 73 157 132 61 49 381 133 6 41 22 79 134 8 280 91 351 135 5 23 3 67 136 3 24 10 86 137 16 37 37 37 138 3 4 6 8 139 186 48 526 28 140 119 15 142 17 141 61 4 72 17 142 7 10 40 27 143 31 21 90 105 144 30 20 71 40 145 16 18 81 53 146 66 119 405 147 7 40 10 44 148 20 264 27 548 149 5 6 15 52 150 524 321 151 414 478 214 228 152 107 506 197 153 438 283 154 57 125 144 177 155 45 2230 16 296 156 7 51 157 43 1910 143 1040 158 126 3 286 3 159 44 864 110 1050 160 24 667 79 252 161 628 363 162 219 114 163 80 294 202 180 164 44 181 130 110 165 864 555 166 51 216 167 69 758 168 93 108 169 230 350 170 474 407 171 68 149 88 130 172 45 605 173 10 175 15 140 174 8 298 175 3 245 176 3 550 177 4 334 178 142 871 179 4 934 8 1500 180 441 235 181 962 887 182 142 193 209 182 183 60 701 184 27 375 48 330 185 14 200 186 9 500 187 10 563 188 59 282 324 22 189 5 16 190 13 34 8 1250 191 23 219 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method of treatment of a cancer by antagonizing prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4, wherein said cancer is selected from melanoma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, renal carcinomas, gastro-intestinal cancers, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, neuroblastoma, and prostate cancer; wherein said cancer is treated by modulating an immune response comprising a reactivation of the immune system in the tumor; comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of formula (I)

or of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; and optionally administering one or more chemotherapy agents and/or radiotherapy and/or targeted therapy; wherein in the compounds of the formula (I) ring (A) in the fragment:

represents an aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring or a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring, which ring (A) is fused to the phenyl group, wherein independently said ring (A) optionally contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur; wherein said fragment is optionally substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, three, or four optional substituents, wherein said substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₂₋₃)alkenyl, (C₂₋₃)alkynyl, (C₁₋₃)alkoxy, halogen, —S—(C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy, cyano, oxo, and amino; R³ represents hydrogen, methyl or trifluoromethyl; R^(4a) and R^(4b) independently represent hydrogen, methyl, or R^(4a) and R^(4b) together with the carbon atom to which they are attached represent a cycloprop-1,1-diyl group; R^(5a) and R^(5b) independently represent hydrogen, methyl, or R^(5a) and R^(5b) together with the carbon atom to which they are attached represent a cycloprop-1,1-diyl group; Ar¹ represents phenyl, or a 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl; wherein said phenyl or 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl independently is mono-, di- or tri-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently selected from (C₁₋₆)alkyl; (C₁₋₄)alkoxy; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, wherein said (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl is optionally substituted with hydroxy; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy; halogen; cyano; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl, wherein said (C₃₋₆) cycloalkyl is unsubstituted or mono-substituted with amino; (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom, wherein said (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom is unsubstituted or mono-substituted with hydroxy; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy; hydroxy; —X¹—CO—R^(O1), wherein X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene, —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*, —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*, —S—CH₂—*, —CF₂—, —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, —CO—, or (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and R^(O1) represents  —OH;  —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl;  —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂;  —O—CH₂—CO—R^(O4), wherein R^(O4) represents hydroxy, or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, or —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂;  —O—CH₂—O—CO—R^(O5), wherein R^(O5) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy;  —O—CH₂—CH₂—N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂; or  (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyloxy-; —CO—CH₂—OH;

2-hydroxy-3,4-dioxo-cyclobut-1-enyl; hydroxy-(C₁₋₄)alkyl; dihydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl; hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy; (C₁₋₄)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy; —(CH₂)_(r)—CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein r represents the integer 0 or 1; and wherein R^(N3) and R^(N4) independently represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₄)alkyl, hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, (C₁₋₃)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, or hydroxy; —X²NR^(N1)R^(N2), wherein X² represents —(CH₂)_(m)—, wherein m represents the integer 0 or 1; or X² represents —O—CH₂—CH₂—*,wherein the asterisk indicates the bond that is linked to the —NR^(N1)R^(N2) group; and wherein R^(N1) and R^(N2) independently represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₁₋₄)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl, or (C₂₋₃)fluoroalkyl; or R^(N1) independently represents hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl, and R^(N2) independently represents —CO—H, —CO—(C₁₋₃)alkyl, —CO—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-OH, or —CO—O—(C₁₋₃)alkyl; or R^(N1) and R^(N2) together with the nitrogen to which they are attached form a 4-, 5- or 6-membered saturated ring optionally containing one ring oxygen or ring sulfur atom, wherein said ring is unsubstituted, or mono-substituted with oxo on a ring carbon atom, or disubstituted with oxo on a ring sulfur atom; —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) wherein R^(N5) and R^(N6) independently represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl; —SO₂—R^(S1) wherein R^(S1) represents hydroxy, (C₁₋₄)alkyl, or —NR^(N7)R^(N8) wherein R^(N7) and R^(N8) independently represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₃)alkyl; —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom; —(CH₂)_(q)—HET¹, wherein q represents the integer 0, 1 or 2; and wherein HET¹ represents 5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl, or 5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl; and —(CH₂)_(p)—HET, wherein p represents the integer 0 or 1; and wherein HET represents a 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl, wherein said 5- or 6-membered heteroaryl is unsubstituted, or mono- or di-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently selected from (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, —COOH, hydroxy, hydroxy-(C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₃₋₅)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom, and —NR^(N9)R^(N10) wherein R^(N9) and R^(N)″ independently represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₃)alkyl, or hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl; or Ar¹ represents an 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl; wherein said 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl independently is unsubstituted, mono-, or di-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently selected from (C₁₋₄)alkyl; (C₁₋₄)alkoxy; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy; halogen; cyano; hydroxy, and —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O2) wherein R^(O2) represents hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl; or Ar′ represents a group of the structure (Ar-III):

wherein ring (B) represents a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring fused to the phenyl group, wherein ring (B) comprises one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen and oxygen; wherein said ring (B) independently is unsubstituted, mono-, or di-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently selected from oxo, (C₁₋₆)alkyl and —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O3) wherein R^(O3) represents hydrogen or (C₁₋₃)alkyl.
 2. A method according to claim 1, wherein said compound of formula (I) is a compound of formula (II)

wherein ring (A) in the fragment:

represents an aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring or a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring, which ring (A) is fused to the phenyl group, wherein independently said ring (A) optionally contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur; wherein said fragment is optionally substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, three, or four optional substituents, wherein said substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₂₋₃)alkenyl, (C₂₋₃)alkynyl, (C₁₋₃)alkoxy, halogen, —S—(C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy, cyano, oxo, and amino; and Ar¹ represents a phenyl group of the structure (Ar-I):

wherein R^(p) represents (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom, wherein said (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom is unsubstituted or mono-substituted with hydroxy; hydroxy; —X¹—CO—R^(O1), wherein X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene, —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*, —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*, —S—CH₂—*, —CF₂—, —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, —CO—, or (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and R^(O1) represents  —OH;  —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl;  —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂;  —O—CH₂—CO—R^(O4), wherein R^(O4) represents hydroxy, or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, or —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂;  —O—CH₂—O—CO—R^(O5), wherein R^(O5) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy;  —O—CH₂—CH₂—N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂; or  (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyloxy-;

2-hydroxy-3,4-dioxo-cyclobut-1-enyl; hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy; —(CH₂)_(r)—CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein r represents the integer 0 or 1; and wherein R^(N3) and R^(N4) independently represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₄)alkyl, hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, (C₁₋₃)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, or hydroxy; —NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) wherein R^(N5) and R^(N6) independently represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl; —(CH₂)_(q)—HET¹, wherein q represents the integer 0, 1 or 2; and wherein HET¹ represents 5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl, or 5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl; —(CH₂)_(p)—HET, wherein p represents the integer 0 or 1; and wherein HET represents a 5-membered heteroaryl, wherein said 5-membered heteroaryl is unsubstituted, or mono- or di-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently selected from (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, —COOH, hydroxy, hydroxy-(C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₃₋₅)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom, and —NR^(N9)R^(N10) wherein R^(N9) and R^(N10) independently represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₃)alkyl, or hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl; R^(m1) represents hydrogen; (C₁₋₆)alkyl; (C₁₋₄)alkoxy; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy; halogen; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy; hydroxy; hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy; —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2), wherein X² represents a direct bond; or X² represents —O—CH₂—CH₂—*, wherein the asterisk indicates the bond that is linked to the —NR^(N1)R^(N2) group; and wherein R^(N1) and R^(N2) independently represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₄)alkyl, or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl; —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom; R^(m2) represents hydrogen, methyl, fluoro, or chloro; and R^(o1) represents hydrogen; or, in case R^(m2) represents hydrogen, R^(o1) represents hydrogen or fluoro; or Ar¹ represents a 5-membered heteroaryl group of the structure (Ar-II):

wherein Y represents CR⁸ wherein R⁸ represents hydrogen or halogen; or Y represents N; R⁷ represents (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom, wherein said (C₄₋₆)cycloalkyl containing a ring oxygen atom is unsubstituted or mono-substituted with hydroxy; —X¹—CO—R^(O1), wherein —X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene, —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*, —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*, —S—CH₂—*, —CF₂—, —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, —CO—, or (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and R^(O1) represents —OH; —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl; —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂; —O—CH₂—CO—R^(O4), wherein R^(O4) represents hydroxy, or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, or —N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂; —O—CH₂—O—CO—R^(O5), wherein R^(O5) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₁₋₄)alkoxy; —O—CH₂—CH₂—N[(C₁₋₄)alkyl]₂; or (5-methyl-2-oxo-[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-methyloxy-;

2-hydroxy-3,4-dioxo-cyclobut-1-enyl; hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy; —(CH₂)_(r)—CO—NR^(N3)R^(N4) wherein r represents the integer 0 or 1; and wherein R^(N3) and R^(N4) independently represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₄)alkyl, hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, (C₁₋₃)alkoxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl, or hydroxy; —-NH—CO—NR^(N5)R^(N6) wherein R^(N5) and R^(N6) independently represent hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl; —(CH₂)_(q)—HET¹, wherein q represents the integer 0, 1 or 2; and wherein HET¹ represents 5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, 3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl, or 5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl; —(CH₂)_(p)—HET, wherein p represents the integer 0 or 1; and wherein HET represents a 5-membered heteroaryl, wherein said 5-membered heteroaryl is unsubstituted, or mono- or di-substituted, wherein the substituents are independently selected from (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₁₋₄)alkoxy, —COOH, hydroxy, hydroxy-(C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₃₋₅) cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom, and —NR^(N9)R^(N10) wherein R^(N9) and R^(N10) independently represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₃)alkyl, or hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkyl; R⁶ represents (C₁₋₆)alkyl; (C₁₋₄)alkoxy; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy; halogen; hydroxy; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy; hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy; —X²—NR^(N1)R^(N2), wherein X² represents a direct bond; or X² represents —O—CH₂—CH₂—*, wherein the asterisk indicates the bond that is linked to the —NR^(N1)R^(N2) group; and wherein R^(N1) and R^(N2) independently represent hydrogen, (C₁₋₄)alkyl, or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl; —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom; or Ar¹ represents 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl; wherein said 8- to 10-membered bicyclic heteroaryl independently is mono-substituted with —(C₀₋₃)alkylene-COOR^(O2) wherein R represents hydrogen or (C₁₋₄)alkyl; or Ar¹ represents a group of the structure (Ar-III):

which is selected from 2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-6-yl, 3-methyl-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-benzooxazol-5-yl, 1-methyl-3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indazol-6-yl, 2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl, 1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-6-yl, 1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-6-yl, 1-methyl-2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinazolin-7-yl, and 1-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-isoquinolin-7-yl; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 3. A method according to claim 2; wherein Ar¹ represents a group selected from:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 4. A method according to claim 3; wherein in the fragment

ring (A) represents an aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring fused to the phenyl group, wherein said ring (A) optionally contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur; wherein said fragment is optionally substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, three, or four optional substituents, wherein said substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₁₋₃)alkoxy, halogen, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy, cyano, and amino; or ring (A) represents a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring fused to the phenyl group, wherein said ring (A) optionally contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur; wherein said fragment is optionally substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, or three optional substituents, wherein said substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₁₋₃)alkoxy, halogen, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy, and oxo; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 5. A compound of formula (III)

wherein in compounds of the formula (III), ring (A) in the fragment:

represents an aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring or a non-aromatic 5- or 6-membered ring, which ring (A) is fused to the phenyl group, wherein independently said ring (A) optionally contains one or two heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur; wherein said fragment is optionally substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, three, or four optional substituents, wherein said substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₂₋₃)alkenyl, (C₂₋₃)alkynyl, (C₁₋₃)alkoxy, halogen, —S—(C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy, cyano, oxo, and amino; and Ar¹ represents a phenyl group of the structure (Ar-I):

wherein R^(p) represents —X¹—CO—R^(O1), wherein —X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene, —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*, —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*, —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, or (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and represents  —OH;  —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl;  —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂; HET¹, wherein HET′ represents 5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, or 3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl; or HET, wherein HET represents a group selected from 1H-tetrazol-5-yl, 3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl, 3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-amino-oxazol-5-yl, 5-amino-E1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl, 5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl, and 5-amino-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl; R^(m1) represents (C₁₋₆)alkyl; (C₁₋₄)alkoxy; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy; halogen; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy; hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy; or —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom; R^(m2) represents hydrogen, methyl, fluoro, or chloro; and R^(o1) represents hydrogen; or Ar¹ represents a 5-membered heteroaryl group of the structure (Ar-II):

wherein Y represents CH or N; R⁷ represents —X¹—CO—R^(O1), wherein X¹ represents a direct bond, (C₁₋₃)alkylene, —O—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*, —NH—(C₁₋₃)alkylene-*, —CH═CH—, —NH—CO—*, or (C₃₋₅)cycloalkylene; wherein the asterisks indicate the bond that is linked to the —CO—R^(O1) group; and R^(O1) represents —OH; —O—(C₁₋₄)alkyl; —NH—SO₂—R^(S3) wherein R^(S3) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom, (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-(C₁₋₃)alkylene wherein the (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally contains a ring oxygen atom, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, or —NH₂; HET¹, wherein HET′ represents 5-oxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl, or 3-oxo-2,3-dihydro-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-yl; or) HET, wherein HET represents a group selected from 1H-tetrazol-5-yl, 3-hydroxy-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-hydroxy-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-4-yl, 3-amino-isoxazol-5-yl, 2-amino-oxazol-5-yl, 5-amino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl, 5-methylamino-[1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl, and 5-amino-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-3-yl; R⁶ represents (C₁₋₆)alkyl; (C₁₋₄)alkoxy; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl; (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy;) halogen; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl; (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl-oxy; hydroxy-(C₂₋₄)alkoxy; or —S—R^(S2) wherein R^(S2) represents (C₁₋₄)alkyl or (C₃₋₆)cycloalkyl optionally containing one ring oxygen atom; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 6. A compound according to claim 5; wherein Ar^(i) represents a group selected from

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 7. A compound according to claim 5; wherein the fragment

represents a group selected from benzofuranyl, benzothiophenyl, benzothiazolyl, benzoisothiazolyl, indolyl, indazolyl, naphthyl, quinolinyl, and isoquinolinyl; which group independently is unsubstituted or substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, or three substituents, wherein said substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₁₋₃)alkoxy, halogen, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy, cyano, and amino; or a group selected from 2,3-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophenyl, benzo[1,3]dioxolyl, 1,3-dihydro-isobenzofuranyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzofuranyl, indanyl, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalenyl, 2,3-dihydro-benzo[1,4]dioxinyl, chromanyl, 3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[1,4]oxazinyl, and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolinyl; which group independently is unsubstituted, or substituted with (R¹)_(n); wherein (R¹)_(n) represents one, two, or three substituents, wherein said substituents R¹ are independently selected from (C₁₋₃)alkyl, (C₁₋₃)alkoxy, halogen, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkyl, (C₁₋₃)fluoroalkoxy, and oxo; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 8. A compound according to claim 6; wherein the fragment

represents a group selected from the following groups a) to g): a) benzothiophen-7-yl, benzothiophen-4-yl, 2-methyl-benzothiazol-7-yl, benzofuran-7-yl, benzofuran-4-yl, 2-methyl-benzofuran-7-yl, 1H-indol-7-yl, 1H-indol-4-yl, 2-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl, 1,2-dimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 1,2,3-trimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 1, 5-dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl; b) benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl, 5-methoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl, 5-ethoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl, 5-methoxy-2,3-dihydro-benzofuran-4-yl, 6-methoxy-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolin-5-yl; c) naphthalen-1-yl, 4-chloro-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-bromo-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-amino-naphthalen-1-yl, 2,3-dimethyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 3-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-cyano-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-cyano-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2,5-dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2,3-dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-n-propoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-isopropoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-difluoromethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl; d) quinolin-8-yl, 7-chloro-quinolin-8-yl, 6-methyl-quinolin-5-yl, 7-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl, 6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl, 2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl, 6-fluoro-2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl, 5-fluoro-2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl, 7-fluoro-2-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl, 7-methoxy-4-methyl-quinolin-8-yl, 6-methoxy-2-methyl-quinolin-5-yl, isoquinolin-8-yl, isoquinolin-5-yl, 6-methyl-isoquinolin-5-yl; e) 6-fluoro-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl, 5-methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl, 4-bromo-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 1,5-dimethyl-1H-indol-4-yl, 5-ethoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl, 6-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl; f) 5-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl, 3-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-bromo-naphthalen-1-yl, 5-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-bromo-4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl; and g) quinolin-5-yl; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 9. A compound according to claim 6; wherein the fragment

represents a group selected from the following groups a), b), c), and d): a) benzothiophen-7-yl, benzothiophen-4-yl, benzofuran-7-yl, 2-methyl-benzofuran-7-yl, 1H-indol-4-yl, 1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl, 1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl, 1,5-dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl; b) 5-ethoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl, 5-methoxy-2,3-dihydro-benzofuran-4-yl; c) naphthalen-1-yl, 4-chloro-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-bromo-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-amino-naphthalen-1-yl, 2,3-dimethyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 3-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-cyano-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-cyano-naphthalen-1-yl, 4-difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2,3-dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-n-propoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-isopropoxy-naphthalen-1-yl, 2-difluoromethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl; d) 6-methyl-quinolin-5-yl, 6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl, and isoquinolin-5-yl; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 10. A compound selected from the group consisting of: 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methyl-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-naphthalen-1-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(2-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(2,3-Dimethyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-2-methyl-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(2,3-Dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(7-Chloro-quinolin-8-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-1642-(1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-1642-(1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-1642-(1,2,3-trimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-isopropoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(2-Difluoromethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-2,3-dihydro-benzofuran-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-[6-(2-Benzofuran-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-propoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-1642-(1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(3-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(5-ethoxy-benzo[1,3]dioxol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(4-Chloro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(2-Cyano-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(4-Cyano-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(4-Difluoromethyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methyl-benzofuran-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(2-Amino-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-{6-[2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indazol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(6-methyl-isoquinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-7-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5-[6-(2-Benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; (E)-3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-acrylic acid; 2-Butoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 4-{6-[2-(2-Methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl-2-propyl-benzoic acid; {6-[3-Ethoxy-4-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)-phenyl]-pyrimidin-4-yl-}-2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethyl]-amine; 3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-4H-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-one; 3-(2-Ethoxy-4-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)phenyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol]; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-propionic acid; N-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-oxalamic acid; 3-ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)-N-sulfamoylthiophene-2-carboxamide; N-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carbonyl)-methanesulfonamide; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; 3-(5-(6-((2-(1H-indol-4-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)-3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol; 3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-quinolin-8-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(quinolin-8-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5- 6-[2-(4-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(4-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5- 6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(6-methoxyquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; 3-(5-(6-((2-(1H-indol-7-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)-3-ethoxythiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol; 3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-isoquinolin-5-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(isoquinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol; {6-[4-Ethoxy-5-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)-thiophen-2-yl]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethyl]-amine; 4-Ethoxy-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazole-5-carboxylic acid; 3-(4-Ethoxy-2- 6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazol-5-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; 3-(4-Ethoxy-2-(6-((2-(2-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiazol-5-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol; 5-6-[2-(6-Methoxy-1-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-(2-Hydroxy-ethoxy)-5-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 2-Ethoxy-4-[6-(2-naphthalen-1-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-benzoic acid; 4-{6-[2-(2-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid; 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(4-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(7-methoxy-quinolin-8-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(2-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 3-Ethoxy-5-{6-[2-(1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 5- 6-[2-(1,2-Dimethyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 4-{6-[2-(2-Cyano-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid; 5-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-quinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-trifluoromethyl-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(6-methyl-isoquinolin-5-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-acetic acid; 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 3-(2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenoxy)-propionic acid; 2-Isobutyl-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 2-Fluoro-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl-6-propyl-benzoic acid; 2-Butoxy-6-fluoro-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 2-Difluoromethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; (3-Ethoxy-5- 6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiophen-2-yl)-acetic acid; 4-Ethyl-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazole-5-carboxylic acid; 2-(2-Hydroxy-ethoxy)-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 5-{6-[2-(2, 5-Dimethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 2-Ethylsulfanyl-4-{6-[2-(4-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-isoquinolin-8-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; and 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(isoquinolin-8-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5-ol; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 11. A compound according to claim 5 selected from the group consisting of: 4-{6-[2-(4-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-ethoxy-benzoic acid; 5-{6-[2-(2-Cyano-8-fluoro-5-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-3-ethoxy-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid; 4-{6-[2-(6-Methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid; 4-{6-[2-(4-Bromo-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid; (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid; 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 3-(4-Ethyl-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazol-5-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; 3-(4-ethyl-2-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-thiazol-5-yl)-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-01]; 4-{6-[2-(5-Methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid; (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid; (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid; 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 3-{3-Ethoxy-5-[6-(2-quinolin-5-yl-ethylamino)-pyrimidin-4-yl]-thiophen-2-yl}-[1,2,4]oxadiazol-5-ol; 3-(3-Ethoxy-5-(6-((2-(quinolin-5-yl)ethyl)amino)pyrimidin-4-yl)thiophen-2-yl)-1,2,4-oxadiazol-5(4H)-one; (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid; 4-{6-[2-(5-Fluoro-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid; 2-Cyclobutoxy-4-{6-[2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methyl-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; (2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-methoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-phenyl)-acetic acid; 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-ethoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(5-methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 4- {64245-Methoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid; 4- {64245-Ethoxy-benzo[b]thiophen-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid; 2-Ethoxy-4-{6-[2-(2-ethoxy-naphthalen-1-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-benzoic acid; 4-{6-[2-(1,5-Dimethyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid; and 4- {642-(5-Methoxy-1-methyl-1H-indol-4-yl)-ethylamino]-pyrimidin-4-yl}-2-methylsulfanyl-benzoic acid; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 12. A pharmaceutical composition comprising, as active principle, a compound according to claim 5, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one therapeutically inert excipient.
 13. A method of modulating an immune response in a subject having a tumor, comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of formula (III) according to claim 5, or of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; wherein said effective amount reactivates the immune system in the tumor of said subject by antagonizing prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4; wherein said tumor is a cancer selected from melanoma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, renal carcinomas, gastro-intestinal cancers, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, neuroblastoma and prostate cancer.
 14. A method of treatment of cancer by antagonizing prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4, wherein said cancer is selected from melanoma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, renal carcinomas, gastro-intestinal cancers, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, neuroblastoma, and prostate cancer; pain; autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease; pneumonia; or a neurodegenerative diseases disease mediated by prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4, wherein said neurodegenerative disease is selected from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson disease, Alzheimer's disease, and HIV associated dementia; comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of formula (III) according to claim 5, or of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 15. A method of treatment of a cancer by antagonizing prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4, wherein said cancer is selected from melanoma; lung cancer; bladder cancer; renal carcinomas; gastro-intestinal cancers; endometrial cancer; ovarian cancer; cervical cancer; neuroblastoma; and prostate cancer; comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of formula (III) according to claim 5, or of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 16. A method of treatment of a cancer by antagonizing prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4, wherein said cancer is selected from melanoma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, renal carcinomas, gastro-intestinal cancers, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, neuroblastoma, and prostate cancer; wherein said cancer is treated by modulating an immune response comprising a reactivation of the immune system in the tumor; comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound of formula (III) according to claim 5, or of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally administering one or more chemotherapy agents and/or radiotherapy and/or targeted therapy.
 17. A pharmaceutical composition comprising, as active principle, a compound according to claim 10, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one therapeutically inert excipient.
 18. A pharmaceutical composition comprising, as active principle, a compound according to claim 11, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one therapeutically inert excipient.
 19. A method of treatment of cancer by antagonizing prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4, wherein said cancer is selected from melanoma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, renal carcinomas, gastro-intestinal cancers, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, neuroblastoma, and prostate cancer; pain; autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease; pneumonia; or a neurodegenerative disease mediated by prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4, wherein said neurodegenerative disease is selected from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson disease, Alzheimer's disease, and HIV associated dementia; comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound according to claim 10, or of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 20. A method of treatment of cancer by antagonizing prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4, wherein said cancer is selected from melanoma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, renal carcinomas, gastro-intestinal cancers, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, neuroblastoma, and prostate cancer; pain; autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease; pneumonia; or a neurodegenerative disease mediated by prostaglandin 2 receptors EP2 and/or EP4, wherein said neurodegenerative disease is selected from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson disease, Alzheimer's disease, and HIV associated dementia; comprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective amount of a compound according to claim 11, or of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. 